Mercedes have been handed a fine by the FIA after George Russell failed to attend his mandatory post-race media commitments at the Mexican Grand Prix. The British driver left the circuit without fulfilling his obligations, prompting an investigation by the stewards.

The FIA confirmed that Russell left the circuit without attending his mandatory post-race media commitments. The British driver also failed to appear before the stewards when summoned to explain his absence, leaving a Mercedes representative to provide an explanation over the telephone. As a result, the German team received a €5,000 fine.

The penalty was imposed on Mercedes rather than Russell personally, with the stewards confirming that the team representative acknowledged the driver's departure from the circuit. The decision was published on Sunday evening, shortly after the conclusion of the Mexican Grand Prix.

Photo: Race Pictures

Russell's penalty comes on historic day for Antonelli

The incident occurred at the end of a particularly significant afternoon for Mercedes, as Russell's teammate Kimi Antonelli secured his maiden Formula 1 world championship with four Grands Prix remaining.

The Italian finished third in Mexico, becoming the youngest world champion in the sport's history at just 20 years old. His achievement contrasted sharply with Russell's difficult afternoon, which ended with the British driver classified sixth after receiving a penalty for a collision with Isack Hadjar.

Russell started from second on the grid but lost several positions following a problem with his car's energy deployment on the opening straight. His result also saw him drop to fourth in the championship standings, behind Antonelli, Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton.

While Russell's afternoon ended in disappointment and an FIA fine for Mercedes, his teammate celebrated a historic achievement. Antonelli's championship triumph marked a major milestone for the Silver Arrows, with the Italian securing the title in only his second season in Formula 1.

The 20-year-old expressed his gratitude to Mercedes and his family after crossing the finish line, admitting that he was struggling to process the significance of becoming world champion.

"We did it, we did it. I wouldn’t be here without Mercedes, without my family, so I’m very grateful for this moment and it’s one that will live forever. I'm speechless. I'm trying to process what has just happened."

Antonelli also acknowledged the pressure he experienced during the decisive weekend in Mexico, admitting that he felt more nervous than usual as he approached the opportunity to secure the championship.