Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team recorded the two fastest pit stops during the 2026 British Grand Prix at Silverstone. This performance included a crucial 2.18-second tyre change for George Russell.
Russell’s rapid stop was instrumental in his recovery drive. He secured a second-place finish, marking his maiden podium at his home event.
The British driver had suffered a slow puncture on lap 34, necessitating an unscheduled pit stop. This incident dropped him to seventh position before his comeback.
Kimi Antonelli also benefited from a swift tyre change, contributing to Mercedes’ strong pit lane showing. The team credited the collective effort of the pit crew.
Earlier in the 2026 season, Ferrari had established itself as the benchmark for pit stop efficiency. The Scuderia led the DHL Fastest Pit Stop Award standings after the initial three Grands Prix.
Ferrari’s mechanics executed the two fastest stops of the season at the Japanese Grand Prix. Charles Leclerc’s stop was recorded at 2.13 seconds, with Lewis Hamilton’s at 2.00 seconds.
At Silverstone, Ferrari’s strategic decisions under a late Safety Car impacted Hamilton’s race. The team opted to pit Hamilton, who was running second.
This decision allowed Russell, who remained on track, to gain a position and finish ahead of Hamilton. Ferrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur defended the call.
‘You can discuss about Lewis, if it was the good call to pit,’ Vasseur stated. ‘But if you don’t pit, Russell pits, he’s with new soft, and then you lose the position anyway.’
Vasseur emphasized that the decision was made to protect Charles Leclerc’s lead, who ultimately won the British Grand Prix.
The current Constructors’ Championship standings place Mercedes in the lead with 203 points. Ferrari follows in second with 153 points after nine rounds.
Discussions regarding potential mandatory two-stop races for 2026 were held by the F1 Commission in late 2025. However, no changes were agreed upon for the current season.
