Russell recounts hilarious story at a rugby match: 'He was behind me!'
F1 News
George Russell has reflected on the hilarious moment he thought he was being labelled as 'Prince George' at an England Rugby game. The Mercedes driver, who thought he'd gained a new nickname, turned around to see a real member of the British royal family behind him, the real Prince George!
George Russell most recently finished sixth at the Circuit of the Americas after starting from the pitlane. A good return for the Brit, who brought home the only points for Mercedes on Sunday after teammate and seven-time F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton spun out of the race early on. Mercedes, who sit fourth in the constructors championship, will be hoping to put a lid on their inconsistencies and look for their fourth victory of the season at the Mexican Grand Prix this weekend.
Russell recounts the story:
In an interview earlier this year, Russell spoke about the moment he thought he'd met some slightly eager fans. "There's actually a funny story. I was at a rugby match watching England play, and suddenly, everyone in front of me turned around and were looking up. "And they were screaming, 'George, George, Prince George," he began.
"I thought this was a bit strange, like all these people screaming at me. And then I turned around, and the real Prince George was standing behind me. So, that kind of made sense!" The Sun reported. Russell is a big rugby fan and played the game at school. The Brit went to France last year to watch them take on New Zealand.
Russell, who won this year's Austrian Grand Prix after Max Verstappen and Lando Norris tripped over each other, spoke highly of his experience in conversation with former international Scotland player Jim Hamilton: “I’m feeling good - I’ve been to several rugby games. This is my first World Cup appearance, and already a few hours before the match, the energy is buzzing here."
England's next match is against New Zealand on November 2. Unfortunately for the Brit, he won't be able to attend. He will be busy qualifying for the Brazilian Grand Prix, which takes place the day after!
Want more Formula 1? Then follow GPblog on our various social media channels!