According to Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, Russell has taken on the role of team leader very well.
Photo: Bryn Lennon
We are halfway through the Formula 1 season, and Mercedes has released a mid-season review video on YouTube featuring Toto Wolff. Among other topics, he spoke extensively about George Russell and didn’t hold back on praise. According to him, Russell was even the stronger driver last year in terms of raw speed.
“When I look at George, the development he's made since he joined Formula 1 from the fast kiddo in Williams,” said Wolff, “and then being drafted into Mercedes, clearly with the greatest of all greats, with Lewis Hamilton.
“And you've seen already last year he started to be so strong on pure pace – in terms of the results, the stronger driver. And now with Lewis having gone to Ferrari he's taken the senior driver slot, and it completely came naturally and he delivers.
“He delivers, even when the car is not on the level, he outperforms the car, you can always count on George. And beyond the driving, obviously he's also great with our partners and does a lot of activities that help us to build his brand and build our brand.
“So we couldn't wish for a better number-one driver.”
So far this season, Russell has six podium finishes, including one victory, which he achieved in Canada, where he also secured pole position. This currently puts him fourth in the drivers’ standings.