George Russell Celebrates Mercedes' 2026 Constructors Championship After Challenging Season
Despite finishing fourth at the São Paulo Grand Prix, George Russell had plenty to celebrate on Sunday. The Mercedes driver overcame a challenging race that included a spin while leaving the pit lane, yet he played a key role in securing the 2026 Constructors Championship for Mercedes, ending a four-year drought for the Silver Arrows.
In a video posted by Mercedes on Instagram, Russell admitted this season was tough personally but expressed great pride in what the team achieved together.
"It was a tough day for us as a team, but the most important thing was just bringing it home, so we’ll definitely enjoy this moment because it’s been a year of a lot of lows for me, a few highs, but just being part of this team," Russell said.
Reflecting on Four Difficult Years
The 2026 championship holds extra meaning considering Mercedes’ struggles over the past four seasons. Russell described the win as especially meaningful due to the perseverance everyone at the team showed during those challenging times.
The 28-year-old also noted how emotional the victory was for employees who had been there through the team’s previous eight championship wins, alongside those celebrating their first title with Mercedes.
"Absolutely very special," Russell shared, revealing his emotions about the championship. "It’s been four tough years for the team, with so much hard work, resilience."
He continued, "So many team members who were there for the glory years before and then the four years of struggle. But also so many team members who, like me, had their first Constructors championship. Really special to see. And just seeing everyone on the podium, how much it means to them; that’s only a small percentage of the whole team."
Mercedes Clinches Ninth Constructors Title
Mercedes secured the 2026 Constructors crown with three races remaining in the season. The team now leads Ferrari by 142 points in the standings.
Since Toto Wolff became team principal in 2013, Mercedes experienced a remarkable era, winning eight straight Constructors Championships from 2014 to 2021 and seven Drivers’ titles. They added both titles once again this year, marking another chapter in their legacy of success.
- Championship: 2026 Constructors Championship
- Race: São Paulo Grand Prix
- Russell's Finish: 4th place
- Points Lead Over Ferrari: 142 points
- Seasons of Struggle: 4 years before 2026 title
- Mercedes Constructors Titles Since 2014: 9 total
- Toto Wolff Team Principal Since: 2013
