via Imago
L-R: Lewis Hamilton and George Russell. (Credits:Imago)
via Imago
L-R: Lewis Hamilton and George Russell. (Credits:Imago)
If you thought Formula 1 was just about tire strategies and aerodynamics, you’re sorely mistaken. Sometimes, it’s about capturing those fleeting moments of celebration that escape just as fast as the cars do. Brazil 2022 will forever be etched in George Russell’s memory, where he steered ahead of the legendary Lewis Hamilton, marking a triumphant win. But amidst the echoes of cheers, champagne, and podium celebrations, Russell had to skedaddle straight to Abu Dhabi, leaving little time for night-long festivities.
In a candid chat on the “F1 Beyond The Grid” podcast, Tom Clarkson brought up how Fernando Alonso, Hamilton’s ex-rival, wished he had soaked in more of his championship wins in Brazil. Alonso admitted he had a scant recollection of the post-race celebrations. Drawing a parallel, Clarkson posed the same question to Russell.
via Imago
63 George Russell GBR, Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team, F1 Grand Prix of Japan at Suzuka International Racing Course on September 21, 2023 in Suzuka, Japan. Photo by HOCH ZWEI Suzuka Japan *** 63 George Russell GBR, Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team , F1 Grand Prix of Japan at Suzuka International Racing Course on September 21, 2023 in Suzuka, Japan Photo by HOCH ZWEI Suzuka Japan
George chuckled, “Reminiscing back to that, it’s very similar in a way. We had to fly off to Abu Dhabi. That was already booked in advance.” Russell’s tone was lighthearted, but the faint twinge of regret was hard to miss. “Of course, I would have loved to have spent the whole night there in Brazil with all of my team and celebrate until the sun rose in the morning. But the practicality of it was just not possible.” But true to his spirited nature, he vowed, “But, yeah, we won’t make that same mistake twice.”
So, fans, next time George Russell nabs a win (in Brazil? *wink* *wink*), brace yourselves. We might just get to see a celebration that makes history.
Read More: Mercedes War Gets Uglier as George Russell Insults “Slower” Lewis Hamilton to Favor Max Verstappen
At the Mercedes camp, there’s a clear distinction between raw performance and the numbers on the scoreboard. If you’ve been following the recent Formula 1 season, you’ll notice how Lewis Hamilton, despite facing stiff competition from his own teammate George Russell, has held his ground in spectacular fashion. And that win in Brazil might just need a tad bit more of a look-back.
Lewis Hamilton vs. George Russell: A tale of two seasons at Mercedes
Russell believes he’s having his “best ever” season, and if you just considered pure pace, you might even agree. Yet, the championship scoreboard doesn’t lie – Hamilton’s experience and race craft have carved out a comfortable lead.
Now, before anyone jumps the gun, let’s remember that the points table can be deceptive. Last year saw Russell ahead of Hamilton by 35 points, which didn’t give a full picture of their individual performances. Similarly, Hamilton’s current lead doesn’t completely encapsulate both drivers’ efforts this season.
via Imago
George Russell (L), Lewis Hamilton (R)
Image Courtesy: Imago
Yes, Hamilton’s been the superior Mercedes driver in 2023, boasting 190 points to Russell’s 115 and standing tall with five podiums to Russell’s one. But when you break it down, particularly in qualifying, it’s neck and neck. The duo is evenly matched at 8-8 head-to-heads, with the slightest of time differences favoring Russell.
However, come race day, and the dynamics shift. Hamilton, known for his impeccable race-day strategy, has converted more of these opportunities into points. Russell, on the other hand, despite showing moments of brilliance, has been his own biggest enemy, making errors costing him potential podiums. From misjudging restarts to last-lap shunts, his journey has been a roller-coaster, losing points due to both unfortunate events and driver errors.
Perhaps what Russell needs most this season is a lesson in picking battles. Going head-to-head against a seven-time world champion like Hamilton requires more than just raw speed; it requires knowing when to hold back and when to push. And while Russell may occasionally push beyond the limit, Hamilton’s tried and tested title-winning methodology of playing the long game often pays dividends.
Watch This Story | Lewis Hamilton Gets Past Flashbacks Against George Russell at the 2023 Spanish GP
All said and done, 2023 may not be Russell’s year, but if he can combine his “best ever” performance with a touch of Hamilton’s wisdom, the coming seasons could see one of the closest title races in F1 history. Let the battles commence!
