George Russell Eyes 2025 F1 Title as Team Leader

George Russell embraces his role as Mercedes’ leader, confident and motivated to deliver a world title in the 2025 F1 season.

George Russell is now set to become the leader of Mercedes F1 following Lewis Hamilton’s departure. Partnered with Andrea Kimi Antonelli, he knows he’ll need to step up and is confident about chasing a world title, as he explained during an event with Adidas to launch the 2025 season.

“Yes, absolutely,” Russell told Sky F1. “I feel ready. Everyone on the team is highly motivated, and I believe that over the past few years, through trial and error, whenever we’ve had the chance to win, we’ve taken it.”

“And that’s what gives me the optimism that if we have the car, we can do it. So, we’re working as hard as possible to make that happen this year. But everyone is motivated, and the season looks exciting.”

Russell recognizes the importance of the 2025 season but believes the process Mercedes is currently undergoing is necessary for a comeback and future success: “Of course, we haven’t achieved the success we hoped for or worked toward.”

“But I feel we perhaps needed these years to reset, to change the mold, to start from a fresh foundation. And that applies not only to this year but also to next year.”

“This will be a huge season for every team, and the focus will be on success, because we know that if we start on the right path, it can set us up for the years to come. I’m very motivated, very excited. The break was nice, but I’m ready to go racing now.”

The Briton is thrilled to work with Adidas: “It’s incredible for us to partner with a brand like Adidas that truly understands what it means to perform at the highest level in sports. Their knowledge, expertise, and attention to detail can only benefit us as a team.”

“I hope it gives us an edge in our fight for wins and championships, this season and beyond. Our partnership with Adidas is incredibly exciting. It brings fresh energy as we open the next chapter of our team’s story.”

“We all feel privileged to work with such a major brand. This first collection looks great and has been designed with performance in mind. That’s crucial for us as drivers and will play a key role in helping us both on and off the track.”

Andrea Kimi Antonelli admitted he was emotional when testing his new suit and gear: “We’re very excited to work with Adidas as a team, and personally, as I prepare for my first F1 season, it makes me feel even more special. I’m so happy to work with a partner that truly understands the athlete’s mindset.”

“The first time I wore the new kit with my teammates is a moment I’ll always remember, and I can’t wait to look into the stands and see the fans wearing it too. It’s great to be here at Adidas headquarters today. It’s an incredible partnership, and I’m very excited to start my F1 career with Mercedes wearing Adidas.”

“This first collection is super cool, and we have more coming later in the year that I’m sure our fans will love. I know we’ll look great in the paddock, and our supporters will too, both in the stands and at home!”

Valtteri Bottas, who returns to the team as a reserve driver, couldn’t hide his excitement: “It’s great to be at Adidas headquarters in Herzogenaurach. It’s such an impressive place and brand. The new kit looks cool, and after a few years away, putting on the Mercedes jersey this morning gave me goosebumps. I love this team, and it’s fantastic to be back for 2025.”