Russell ready to assume leadership role at Mercedes: 'I'm starting a new chapter in my career'

Lewis Hamilton having left for good at home Ferrari, it is George Russell who must now assume the leadership role at Mercedes. And the Briton is aware of it. Six years after his debut at the back of the grid at Williams, the triple Grand Prix winner now has more responsibilities within the German team and will be the Silver Arrows' best asset to play for the world title in 2025.  “I recognise my role as the more experienced driver. There are a lot of great young drivers coming onto the grid and it makes you realise you’re not the young guy anymore., concedes George Russell, who will celebrate his 27th birthday on February 15, in an interview published on the official Mercedes website.

"I am starting a new chapter in my career. I am finishing my debut and entering the intermediate phase, he adds, before comparing himself to the most successful drivers in the discipline – they also went to Mercedes. Lewis was 29 when he joined Mercedes and started winning all these championships, and Michael [Schumacher] was in his thirties at Ferrari. Nowadays, everyone starts younger and younger – I made my debut at 20. But I feel ready now to take on roles within the team, but the most important thing is to drive as quickly as possible, and I feel in a good position to do that. I will continue to want to learn, to be open and not take anything for granted. You either have the speed or you don't, but there is no doubt that the youngsters who are coming through will be competitive."

Russell as Antonelli's big brother

Faced with his young teammate Andrea Kimi Antonelli, certainly inexperienced but very promising, the King's Lynn native assumes his role as "big brother" and leader of the Mercedes team. Moreover, the Briton already has a high regard for the Italian rookie... for now. "He is a fantastic driver. He doesn't have the experience yet, but I am sure he will be up to the task very quickly, says George Russell about Andrea Kimi Antonelli. He has already integrated very well. We have both been racing since we were young and we know what to pass on to the team. He is young, but his opinion will be just as valuable.

Winner of three Grands Prix in his career, including two in 2024 (Austria and Las Vegas), George Russell has never had the opportunity to fight for a world title, whether in the Drivers' or the Constructors' category. If the Mercedes W16 corrects the flaws and retains the qualities of its predecessor, fast at times but irregular over time, the Englishman could be able to fight against the Verstappen, to Norris and other Leclerc for the championship. The maturity and talent are there, all that's missing is the tool to achieve it...

ALSO READ > Live radio exchanges also in the FIA's sights?