Russell supports Antonelli’s rise, confident in his readiness for F1.
George Russell expresses confidence that Mercedes F1 has resolved the issues it faced in the Netherlands. The British driver notes that the subsequent analysis was beneficial, although the reasons behind these performance fluctuations remain somewhat unclear.
“Zandvoort was challenging, but we had good days because we understood the problem and how to make progress. There is no consistent pattern from one circuit to another. Zandvoort is a high-downforce track similar to Montreal, both were cold, and we secured pole in Montreal and came sixth in Zandvoort,” Russell recalls.
“It’s a somewhat perplexing sport at times, but we are confident that we have pinpointed the reasons for our lack of competitiveness in Zandvoort and will attempt to revert this weekend.”
“However, the track has undergone significant changes; there’s new, dark asphalt that will retain heat, likely reaching 60 degrees, and the tyres will suffer. But I am confident of having a good weekend.”
Antonelli has had “extensive preparation”
As Andrea Kimi Antonelli might be confirmed to join the Mercedes team for 2025 as early as this weekend, Russell is not concerned about the young Italian and believes he is as prepared as possible for Formula 1. He does, however, echo the sentiment that patience is required with rookies, as is the case with Franco Colapinto at Williams this weekend.
“For any young driver, entering F1 is a challenge. But Kimi has had extensive preparation, spending many test days with the 2022 car. I believe he has completed more test days this year than I did during my three years in junior formulas.”
“Therefore, he is in a good position. But of course, for any newcomer, as with Colapinto this weekend, one cannot expect everything to go smoothly. There will be mistakes and learning, but Kimi is an exceptional driver, very fast. So if he becomes my teammate, he will be very good.”
Russell himself is under contract until the end of the 2025 season, but both he and Toto Wolff have stated that he will remain with the team indefinitely, and the Briton is not concerned about his future when asked about Wolff maintaining a line of communication with Max Verstappen for 2026 .
“It’s something we haven’t really discussed, to be honest. I’ve been with this team for a very, very long time. I am managed by Mercedes. We have always said that we would continue together indefinitely.”
“There are a lot of discussions taking place, and it’s quite amusing to read. But for my part, I’m not focusing on any of that. I’m just focusing on my driving. I’m looking forward to seeing who my partner will be next year.”
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Russell Confident in Young Antonelli’s Mercedes F1 Future Russell Confident in Young Antonelli’s Mercedes F1 Future
