P1racenews AI automatic summary:
There’s a key change in George Russell this year that’s made him just the kind of talisman Mercedes needed after Lewis Hamilton
George Russell has become the Formula 1 driver Mercedes needed him to be after Lewis Hamilton’s departure, showcasing strengths that were previously hindered by admitted weaknesses.
Winning the Singapore Grand Prix, his second victory of the season, solidified Russell as a crucial asset for Mercedes in 2025, consistently delivering strong performances and accumulating a significant portion of the team’s points.
Although Russell was earmarked as Hamilton’s successor for his potential, there was a noticeable transition from simply being fast to leading the team effectively.
Russell’s newfound mental composure and strategic decision-making have contributed to his improved performance, eliminating past tendencies of overreaching or losing focus during critical moments on the track.
His evolution into a dependable and controlled driver has proven essential for Mercedes to maintain competitiveness in the post-Hamilton era, with a more mature approach to challenges and risks benefiting both himself and the team.
