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George Russell’s Post-Race Celebration Takes a Cautious Turn After Previous Pneumonia Battle

 

George Russell’s victory at the Las Vegas Grand Prix was a triumph that many expected would lead to a grand celebration, but the Mercedes driver opted for caution due to concerns over his health. Despite securing his second win of the 2024 season, Russell revealed that he decided against a planned leap into the famous Bellagio fountain, a gesture that would have capped off his dominant performance on the Las Vegas circuit.

 

Russell, who started the race from pole position, led a Mercedes 1-2 finish with teammate Lewis Hamilton coming in second. It was a standout performance for the Briton, who has had a mixed 2024 season, making this victory all the more significant. While a celebration in the form of a splash in the iconic fountains was on Russell’s mind, he ultimately decided against it due to concerns over the cold temperatures and the risk of falling ill.

 

“I really wanted to do it!” Russell admitted when asked if he had followed through with his celebration plans. “But I was so cold after the race that I thought I’d end up getting super ill.” His caution was rooted in a personal experience from the previous year when he contracted pneumonia after competing in the Las Vegas Grand Prix, a condition that impacted him throughout the season finale in Abu Dhabi and into the winter.

 

A Battle with Pneumonia in 2023

 

Russell’s memory of battling pneumonia from the 2023 season played a big role in his decision to avoid a potentially risky post-race celebration this time around. After contracting the illness in Las Vegas the year prior, Russell spent much of the offseason fighting to regain full health, a process that extended well into February of 2024. The toll pneumonia took on his body served as a stark reminder of the importance of taking care of his health, even in moments of victory.

 

“This time last year, I actually caught pneumonia,” Russell explained, reflecting on the struggles he faced. “I was ill all the way into mid-February after Vegas and Abu Dhabi. So, I really wanted to jump in the fountain, but I had to think about how much of a toll it took on my body last time.”

 

Russell humorously attributed his caution to his current soaked state from the post-race champagne celebration. “It’s from all the champagne – that’s why I’m soaking wet!” he laughed, speaking to reporters after the race.

 

Radio Banter with Toto Wolff

 

The celebrations may not have included a fountain plunge, but Russell did not miss out on enjoying the moment. In an amusing post-race radio exchange with Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, Russell made it clear that he intended to celebrate his victory in style, albeit with some discretion.

 

“Let’s have a drink in Los Angeles tonight, George!” Wolff suggested over the team radio.

 

“Toto, I’m staying in Vegas!” came Russell’s cheeky reply.

 

Wolff, ever the pragmatist, responded with humor: “I think maybe I need to stay in Vegas too.”

 

Though eager to celebrate, Russell admitted that his limited experience with partying left him unsure about where to head for the night’s festivities. “I don’t party that often, and I don’t know where I need to go, but I’ll be going somewhere!” he joked, adding to the lighthearted atmosphere surrounding his victory.

 

A Win to Savor

 

Russell’s victory in Las Vegas was more than just a personal triumph; it also reinforced Mercedes’ ability to compete at the highest level. After a challenging season where Red Bull and McLaren often overshadowed them, the 1-2 finish in Las Vegas was a reminder of the Silver Arrows’ pedigree. For Russell, this win marked a high point in his 2024 campaign and showcased his resilience, both in battling back from illness and navigating a challenging year.

 

While the celebration may have been more low-key than originally planned, George Russell’s decision to prioritize his health underscores the demands of competing at the pinnacle of motorsport. His victory in Las Vegas will not only be remembered for his performance on the track but also for his ability to celebrate smartly, knowing the toll that high-level racing takes on both body and mind.

 

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