George Russell breaks rank and follows Lewis Hamilton's suit after Mercedes

George Russell breaks rank and follows Lewis Hamilton’s suit after Mercedes sack warning

George Russell has openly criticized Mercedes’ car performance, echoing Lewis Hamilton’s dissatisfaction, despite warnings that doing so might jeopardize his position.

Both drivers have struggled to compete with rivals like Max Verstappen and Lando Norris this season, highlighting ongoing challenges for Mercedes.

Hamilton recently likened the car to a “plank of wood,” while Russell described it as unpredictable, further underlining the team’s performance issues.

The 26-year-old Russell expressed frustration over the car’s inconsistency, claiming that its performance fluctuates unpredictably.

“In 2022, during the porpoising era, it was definitely more unpleasant,” he said, referring to the bouncing issues of that year’s car.

However, he noted that back then, the challenges were more predictable.

“The problem with this car is you feel like you’re delivering a great lap, and then, without warning, the performance drops off. It’s the most inconsistent performance we’ve had as a team, probably ever.”

Mercedes enjoyed a brief resurgence before the summer break, securing three wins in four races.

However, since then, the team has struggled to maintain that momentum, achieving only one podium finish in the last seven races.

Consequently, both Hamilton and Russell have slipped to sixth and seventh in the standings, respectively.

Hamilton, 39, has been particularly vocal about his dissatisfaction with the car, a luxury he may afford given rumors of an impending move to Ferrari.

Former F1 boss Guenther Steiner suggested that Hamilton’s potential departure grants him the freedom to criticize without fear of reprisal. Russell, on the other hand, may not have the same leeway.

Steiner recently warned that the younger driver should tread carefully when criticizing Mercedes, as his position within the team isn’t as secure as Hamilton’s.

Speaking on the Red Flag podcast, Steiner explained the contrasting dynamics between the two drivers.

“Lewis knows he’s leaving soon, so it’s easier for him to complain. George, however, needs to show he’s the leader of the team for the future.

He has to prove himself because, unlike Lewis, his seat isn’t guaranteed after his current contract ends,” Steiner said.

He added that the car, while clearly underperforming, is still the fourth-best on its good days, but it lags behind leading teams like Red Bull and McLaren.

Despite these warnings, Russell remains confident about his future with Mercedes. Addressing reporters, he dismissed speculation about his position, stating that his long-standing relationship with the team provides stability.

“I’ve been with this team for so long and am managed by Mercedes. We’ve always said we’ll continue together indefinitely,” Russell said.

He also emphasized that he is focused on his driving rather than off-track discussions about his future or Hamilton’s possible move to Ferrari.

Mercedes’ recent struggles have placed the team in an unfamiliar position. Once dominant, they are now grappling with a car that both drivers find challenging.

The unpredictability of the car’s performance has made it difficult for the team to compete consistently, even as they work to reclaim their position as front-runners in the sport.

Steiner acknowledged the team’s difficulties, noting that the car’s performance issues are evident.

However, he cautioned that public criticism might not be the best approach, especially for someone in Russell’s position.

“George has to put everything into proving he’s the team’s future leader. Complaining won’t help his case,” Steiner said.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Mercedes’ future and Hamilton’s rumored exit, Russell appears unfazed. He maintains that his focus is on improving his performance and contributing to the team’s progress.

His recent comments suggest a determination to rise above the challenges, even as Mercedes navigates one of its most turbulent seasons in recent history.

Hamilton’s potential move to Ferrari, combined with Mercedes’ struggles, adds to the intrigue surrounding the team’s future.

For Russell, the opportunity to step up as the team leader could hinge on his ability to balance constructive criticism with a commitment to pushing the team forward.

As the season nears its end, both drivers will be under intense scrutiny, with Russell’s approach potentially shaping his long-term future with Mercedes.