Russell had tough Mercedes day: "It was crazy"
F1 News
- GPblog.com
George Russell took to the track for the first time with his new Mercedes car on Friday afternoon at Silverstone. The driver stated in an online press moment with GPblog and others that he had a proud feeling when he got into the car. However, he knows better than anyone that the goal is far from being reached.
The Brit earned his own chance at Mercedes last season. Russell had a great year at Williams and managed to score no less than sixteen points for the team. It ensured that the interest of Mercedes was aroused. When the German racing team decided to say goodbye to Valtteri Bottas, Russell's name was quickly in the picture.
This coming season, a lot of pressure is immediately on Russell's shoulders. The youngster may have done well at Williams, but driving in a top team usually brings other pressures with it. Russell is therefore frequently advised by Hamilton and hopes to be competing for prizes in the foreseeable future.
The first tests did not go easily, as there is a storm going on at Silverstone. "I’m not sure how many are in the UK, or if you can hear the wind, but it’s the windiest day I’ve ever experienced in my whole motorsport career. It was crazy," Russell informed. "We just went through the programme of just running it and making sure i’m comfortable. The car handled largely as we expected. Equally in these wet and windy conditions, there’s not a huge amount you can take from it. So far we are in a good place."
Russell experiences special moment
On Friday morning, Mercedes presented that new car which has been relatively well received by Formula 1 connoisseurs. A few hours later, Russell could be found on the track completing a few laps. The driver told the press meeting honestly that it was very special for him when he stepped into the W13, as Mercedes' car will be called in 2022, for the first time.
"This morning gave me goosebumps when the car was fired up. I’ve driven so many laps in the simulator, I’ve seen so many drawings and meetings but nothing like going to a race track. It brings me back to my roots, a cold wet and windy day at Silverstone," Russell stated. "It’s going to be a constant learning process"