Janice R. Andrews
George Russell credits his success in the 2024 Formula 1 season to his “natural driving style,” which he believes aligns perfectly with the demands of the current F1 cars and Pirelli’s 18-inch ground-effect tires. This approach has enabled him to excel in qualifying and outperform his former Mercedes teammate, Lewis Hamilton, in the drivers’ standings.
Thriving in the Ground-Effect Era
Speaking to media outlets, including Autosport, Russell explained how his driving technique complements the modern F1 machinery. “I think probably my natural driving style has worked well in these cars,” he stated. This compatibility contributed to his remarkable 24-6 qualifying record against Hamilton in 2024.
Russell’s efficient approach—characterized by straighter cornering lines and precise, single steering inputs—reduces stress on the tires. This method helps prevent overheating and ensures consistent tire performance, giving him a decisive edge during qualifying.
In contrast, Hamilton’s aggressive style, involving sharp steering and late braking, often overstresses the tires, making it challenging to extract optimal performance under the current regulations.
Experience Fuels Confidence
Now in his sixth F1 season, Russell highlighted the importance of experience in refining his driving approach. “You learn throughout the season what it takes to get the most from the tires,” he noted.
By the latter part of 2024, Russell had developed a clear understanding of the car’s strengths and weaknesses, enabling him to strike a balance between pushing the limits and managing its vulnerabilities effectively.
Mental resilience has also played a key role in his growth. “Handling setbacks is crucial,” Russell said. Earlier in his career, he admitted to dwelling on poor results, which affected his subsequent races. Now, he quickly moves on, focusing entirely on crucial moments like Q3 in qualifying sessions.
Consistency Under Pressure
Russell reflected on a challenging period in 2022 when he briefly struggled against Hamilton. Those experiences taught him to remain composed, even when facing setbacks.
“If I’m behind [Hamilton] in FP3 or Q2, I don’t let it bother me,” he said. “It’s that one lap in Q3 that really counts.” This mindset has been instrumental in his ability to perform under pressure in Formula 1’s competitive environment.
A Promising Future
Russell’s driving style, which blends technical precision with effective tire management and mental fortitude, positions him as one of the most adaptable drivers on the grid.
For Mercedes, his ability to consistently deliver results underscores his value to the team. As the 2025 season approaches, Russell looks set to continue his upward trajectory, solidifying his status as one of F1’s top talents.
His unique balance of skill, experience, and composure makes George Russell a strong contender for future championship battles, highlighting the significance of adaptability in the ever-evolving world of Formula 1.
