Toto Wolff Refutes Claims of George Russell’s Underrating in F1

Mercedes team principal, Toto Wolff, has dismissed suggestions that British driver George Russell is underestimated within the Formula 1 (F1) circuit. After a three-year tenure with Williams, Russell joined Mercedes in 2022, providing him an ideal platform to learn leadership skills alongside seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton before his move to Ferrari. This season, Russell is mentoring rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli, and their combined efforts have garnered 57 points for the team.

Wolff Defends Russell’s Skills and Abilities

During an interview with Motorsport.com, Wolff addressed comments that Russell is underrated in the paddock. He asserted, “Not with us. Why is he underrated? I don’t know. He is a top, top driver, and we are fortunate to have him. The decision to bring Kimi on board was daring because we knew we had George as a benchmark. The car doesn’t go much faster than George, and we know where the car will be with George, which serves as the benchmark for Kimi.”

Russell signed with Mercedes at a time when he believed he could compete for race victories. With and Red Bull being clear favorites going into 2022 after an intense 2021 championship battle, Russell’s expectations were high. However, the reality fell short as the Brackley-based squad opted for an ambitious zero sidepod concept for the W13, which led to numerous issues with the car. Since then, the team has grappled with performance issues.

Team’s Improved Performance in 2023

With F1 entering the last year of the current regulations, the team seems to have turned things around and currently sits second in the constructors’ standings behind McLaren.

Wolff acknowledged Russell’s initial expectations, stating, “Exactly, he expected different. But you can also see George’s performance against Lewis, and today’s performance of Lewis against Charles Leclerc, clearly we are talking about a top driver.”

Russell’s contract with Mercedes expires at the end of 2025. However, Wolff has hinted at his eagerness to secure the British driver on a long-term contract. Click here to read our in-depth interview with Toto Wolff for more insights.