In the name of continuity, trying to grow even more. George Russell sounds the charge to his team in view of Saudi Arabian GP. The Mercedes driver, speaking in the usual press conference on the eve of the season, took stock of the first race of the season (finished in fifth place) and the feeling he has gained so far with the new W15.
Russell, his feelings on the Saudi Arabian GP
The sensations are positive. Mercedes, however, considering above all Hamilton's seventh place, hopes to be able to improve his performance and try to get closer to the Classic Ferrari for sale, which in Bahrain proved to be the second force on the track, although Russell is convinced that the full strength of the Silver Arrow has not yet been seen. “In Bahrain the car showed real potential in Friday practice. We had a cooling problem in the race and we lost battery power which affected us even more. This influenced the fight with Perez and Sainz: we have not shown our true potential".
“Verstappen? It would be stimulating, but I'm not afraid"
These days, one of the biggest topics of discussion is the ability to see Verstappen as new Mercedes driver in Hamilton's place from 2025. A hypothesis that certainly doesn't put pressure on someone like Russell: “As I said last weekend, it's my third season alongside Hamilton, the greatest of all time. Whoever comes I will welcome him. You always want to go against the best and I believe in myself. I believe, however, that thanks to Hamilton I was able to evaluate my work and prove my worth". And on the possible negotiation between the Dutchman and Mercedes, Russell added: “I think every team wants to have that best possible couple. Max is the best driver on the grid and if there was an opportunity for a team to sign him they would without a doubt do it. I think he would be exciting."
