George Russell "still not there" as Mercedes pressure builds after Dutch GP, says former F1 driver
Former Formula 1 driver and F1 TV analyst Jolyon Palmer believes George Russell is feeling the heat within Mercedes, claiming that the Briton is "still not there" compared to team-mate Kimi Antonelli following the Dutch Grand Prix. Mercedes secured a double podium at Zandvoort, finishing second and third behind McLaren's Lando Norris. But the late team order instructing Russell to yield track ...…
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff explained the team's decision to swap drivers Kimi Antonelli and George Russell at the Dutch Grand Prix, stating it wasn't a particularly difficult choice. Despite Russell's reluctance to the team radio orders, Wolff affirmed there would be no disconnect between the duo. The race unfolded with Russell leading the field after a crash by Max Verstappen, but Antonelli took the lead following a restart.
Russell, on older tyres, initially pleaded with Mercedes to follow team orders, fearing a race with Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc in hot pursuit. After being told to exchange cars, Russell questioned the decision, asking via team radio if he was fighting for the win or planning to catch Norris. Ultimately, Mercedes secured a double podium finish, extending their lead in the Constructors' standings.
Wolff emphasized that while team orders are challenging, they're a strategic necessity to avoid losing race time and points to competitors like Ferrari.
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