Mercedes technical director James Allison has rejected online speculation that the team favours one of its drivers in the 2026 Formula 1 title fight. Allison described the notion as alien to the team's culture during an appearance on the Nu Silver Arrows Radio Show.
Allison addressed accusations that Mercedes prioritises either George Russell or Kimi Antonelli. He emphasised that the team earns prize money based on the Constructors' Championship and needs maximum points from both drivers.
"It is in all of our interests that both our drivers prosper," Allison said. "We want a 1-2 in every race and we don't care the order."
The comments followed an on-track clash between Russell and Antonelli at the Barcelona Grand Prix. The incident allowed Lewis Hamilton to secure victory for Ferrari. Team principal Toto Wolff has previously said Mercedes will avoid team orders unless a rival threatens the lead.
Antonelli leads the Drivers' Standings by 41 points over Hamilton, with Russell nine points further back. Mercedes holds a 72-point advantage in the Constructors' Championship.
