Vettel rallies behind this F1 driver in high-stakes 2026 title campaign

Speaking on ServusTV, the four-time world champion said he believes the Briton and Mercedes are the leading contenders for this year’s title, while acknowledging that several other teams and drivers on the grid remain equally strong challengers.

The former Formula 1 supremo suggested Mercedes could hold an advantage over its rivals heading into the 2026 season, while emphasising that Russell will need to demonstrate a true killer instinct across the full campaign if he wants to secure the drivers’ crown.

Speaking to Sport.de, Ecclestone argued that Mercedes appears well positioned competitively and believes Russell has the talent required to fight for the title, adding that any team powered by Mercedes engines could have a strong shot at winning the championship.