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  Debate

Debate

Is George Russell the future of Mercedes, or is he just having a lucky streak?

What a nail-biting Qualifying! This is exactly what Silverstone has been offering for the last 75 years – thrill. The outstanding audience just added to the electrifying atmosphere. And for the first time in the history of the Formula 1 British Grand Prix, it is an all-British pole for tomorrow’s race. What a monumental moment in F1’s history; George Russell led on track, with Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris following closely behind, securing the Top 3 spots as home heroes.

Following Russell’s P1, the day turned even more special for Mercedes. Although the race is left, the mood in the Silver Arrows garage is already celebratory. Because not just George, but Toto’s protege Kimi Antonelli has done wonders in Formula 2. The 17-year-old succeeded in bringing a smile to Toto Wolff’s face. But first, let’s talk about Mercedes’ poles.

Mercedes 1-2 in Qualifying as George Russell leads the party into tomorrow’s British Grand Prix

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Joining George Russell at the front of the starting grid is his teammate Lewis Hamilton. A brilliant P1 and P2 for the Mercedes boys.  Starting the day on a wet track, it was going to be a tough qualifying for the drivers. Q1 itself was a banger! Russell tailed behind Hamilton, with the latter putting the fastest lap time. After Sergio Perez’s car was beached, officials deleted Russell’s lap time, which dropped him down to P13. However, he managed to put up a display of his skills and finished in third, followed by Lewis Hamilton.

Q2 was initially led by Lando Norris. Charles Leclerc struggled with grip issues, while Verstappen lagged in 10th place. Ferrari No. 2 Carlos Sainz managed to go P1 but the order kept changing as time ticked away. Meanwhile, Nico Hulkenberg’s Haas showcased a next-level show. In the ending minutes of Q2, Mercedes resurged by bringing them back to the top. As the second round ended, it was an all-British Top 3! Meanwhile, Verstappen was almost out of Q2 but somehow managed to make it through.

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In the third round, Max was able to pull himself up from P10 to P4. At one point it seemed like Lando Norris would take his third pole, but was soon overthrown by George Russell. Up in front, the crowd continued to cheer for Lewis Hamilton, as his performance spiked exponentially at the Qualifying today. Giving hopes of winning tomorrow’s race, the legend finished P2 right behind his partner, George.

So, an all-British front lineup at the British Grand Prix tomorrow. Despite all the odds, Mercedes put up a show their fans had been waiting to see for so long. The track dominance was on point. This shows that whatever internal work they’ve been doing is working out for them. But, these pole positions aren’t the only reasons for Toto Wolff to smile ear-to-ear. Formula 2, gave the team principal a promising potential as well.

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What’s your perspective on:

Is George Russell the future of Mercedes, or is he just having a lucky streak?

Have an interesting take?

Mercedes’ protege Kimi Antonelli bags his first F2 sprint win on the historical track of Silverstone

Prema driver, the ‘star boy’ of Mercedes, Kimi Antonelli bagged his first win in Formula 2. An auspicious win for the 17-year-old as it came on the historic track of Silverstone. He was in a league of his own at today’s race. Zooming through the wet circuit, the young driver portrayed his skills like never before. Several safety car scenes and rain breaks later, the young Italian emerged victorious. Clearing up the battle against the Invicta pair Kush Maini and Bortoleto, and others for the lead, Kimi found his way beyond the chequered flags; clinching his first win.

Antonelli’s win is a good sign for Toto Wolff. His prospects of entering F1 by next year could be boosted by this maiden victory. Kimi’s performance today could also be a certificate for Mercedes, as they are considering the young man for replacing Hamilton. Kimi’s F2 win and a Mercedes 1-2 pole in F1 Qualifying, Toto Wolff is a happy man today.

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As the British GP waits to unfold, tomorrow will be an extremely crucial day for Mercedes. Despite their poles, top drivers are closely following behind them. The actual task for George Russell and Lewis Hamilton would be to hold on to their position throughout; till the end. Meanwhile, Toto Wolff has all the reasons to celebrate. His protege cinched his first win and his F1 boys secured the top spots for tomorrow. But, holding their horses for now, Mercedes is ready to take on the British Grand Prix.

What do you think will be the results tomorrow? Share your thoughts in the comments.