Russell: Ready for the World Cup after shocking victory in Singapore

George Russell Feels Ready to Compete for the World Championship

Following his resounding victory at the Singapore Grand Prix on Sunday, Mercedes driver George Russell expressed his confidence in being ready to fight for the Formula 1 world title. This victory represents Russell’s fifth career win and the second of the season, following his triumph at the Canadian Grand Prix in June. The circuit where he achieved victory was the scene of an accident for Russell two years ago, when he was seeking victory in the final laps. His measured performance on Sunday is evidence of his progress as a driver.

I am a very different driver than I was a couple of years ago, and I feel more complete, more confident. I know exactly what I need to do in certain circumstances.

George Russell

Russell admitted to feeling nervous before the race, but highlighted the absence of additional pressure, considering it another race where he felt comfortable with the possibility of winning.

Since his arrival at Mercedes in 2022, Russell hasn’t had a car that allows him to compete for championships. In three seasons as Lewis Hamilton’s teammate, he was only two points behind the seven-time champion and currently leads his rookie teammate Kimi Antonelli by 149 points after 18 races. Russell believes he has matured as a driver in the last two years and would make the most of a car capable of achieving consistent victories throughout a season.

I think it comes with experience, just knowing how to maximize each situation. Probably a couple of years ago I was driving a bit more tense and probably forcing in circumstances where I shouldn’t have.

George Russell

The Mercedes driver added that he now feels more relaxed and that, with the rain an hour before the race, he remained calm, understanding that it was the same situation for everyone.