George Russell Wins Heated Canadian GP Sprint as Mercedes Rivalry Intensifies

Posted : 23 May 2026

George Russell secured a crucial sprint race victory at the Canadian Grand Prix after an intense and controversial battle with Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli that signaled a growing rivalry within the team.

The two Mercedes drivers fought aggressively for the lead during the opening laps, with several incidents bringing tensions to the surface for the first time this season. Russell eventually held on to win the race ahead of Lando Norris, while Antonelli completed the podium in third place.

The drama began shortly after the start when Mercedes converted their front-row lockout into the top two positions on track. Antonelli attempted an overtake around the outside of the opening corner but was forced onto the grass while trying to challenge Russell for the lead.

The Italian driver later voiced frustration over team radio, claiming he had been pushed off the circuit and suggesting Russell deserved a penalty. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff responded directly over the radio, telling Antonelli to focus on driving instead of complaining.

Antonelli’s race became even more complicated moments later when he ran wide again after missing his braking point at a chicane. The error allowed Norris to move into second place and join the battle at the front.

For much of the sprint race, Russell, Norris and Antonelli ran closely together in a tense three-way contest. Antonelli launched another ambitious move around the outside of Norris late in the race but once again ran off the track, allowing the McLaren driver to maintain position.

Despite mounting pressure, Russell remained composed at the front and successfully managed the closing laps to secure an important victory. The result reduced Antonelli’s championship lead over him to 18 points after the young Italian had dominated recent races.

Antonelli continued expressing frustration after the finish, but Wolff again instructed him to avoid discussing the dispute publicly over team radio, suggesting the matter would be handled privately within the team.

Elsewhere, Oscar Piastri climbed to fourth after overtaking Lewis Hamilton late in the race, while Max Verstappen finished seventh after struggling to match the pace of the leading group.

George Russell Wins Heated Canadian GP Sprint as Mercedes Rivalry Intensifies

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