Former IndyCar Series driver and F1 TV analyst James Hinchcliffe has argued that George Russell must treat the remainder of the 2026 season as early preparation for 2027, declaring that the Briton's current championship fight is a "write-off" following the Spanish Grand Prix.
The inaugural race at the Madring circuit in Madrid delivered another blow to Russell's title hopes. While his Mercedes team-mate and current championship leader Kimi Antonelli capitalised on a timely virtual safety car to claim his eighth career victory, Russell endured a frustrating race to finish fifth.