George Russell congratulates Antonelli on his first victory – but former driver David Coulthard warns against a false front and expects a heated Mercedes battle
The team-internal duel at Mercedes is picking up speed: David Coulthard has analyzed the dynamic that is brewing at the Silver Arrows following Andrea Kimi Antonelli’s debut victory at the Chinese Grand Prix. After just two race weekends of the 2026 season, the balance is even: George Russell triumphed in the season opener in Australia and in the sprint in China, while Antonelli secured victory in the main race in Shanghai.
Although Russell officially congratulated his young team-mate, Coulthard is convinced that things are bubbling behind the scenes. “Behind this façade,” says the Scot, Russell will “try to get every possible advantage over him for Suzuka”.
Coulthard: “He’s not your buddy”
When asked on the Up To Speed podcast how long team-mates can actually remain friends, Coulthard was clear: “Well, look, it’s done. It’s over now, because George knows he’s got a real threat to this world championship in the house.”
The 2001 runner-up draws parallels with the competition: “We saw it last year with Lando [Norris] and Oscar [Piastri]. McLaren reached the point where they gave them a car with which they could fight for the world title. Amazingly, they almost lost it to Max [Verstappen] by a couple of points.“
Coulthard says Mercedes must seize the moment, as periods of dominance can be fleeting in the new era of Formula 1: ”This could be the only time Mercedes give them that kind of advantage. So don’t be under any illusions: George is trying everything behind this ‘Well done, Kimi’ posturing to gain the upper hand for Suzuka and the upcoming races.”
One man’s success is another man’s failure
The 13-time Grand Prix winner has little use for the romance of “team play”: “And Kimi’s side should do exactly the same. The term ‘teammate’ is a fallacy. He’s not your buddy. If you get on well off the track, that’s great. But his success is your failure – and vice versa.”
