F1 Report:Russell discusses his 2025 goals as he highlights area ‘I need to…Read more
Russell discusses his 2025 goals as he highlights area ‘I need to work on’
George Russell has enjoyed a standout performance in Qualifying during the 2024 Formula 1 season, outpacing his Mercedes teammate, Lewis Hamilton, with an impressive 18-6 record. However, despite his strength in one-lap speed, Russell aims to replicate that performance on race day as he prepares for his fourth season with Mercedes. He will also have a new teammate for 2025, with rookie Kimi Antonelli stepping in to replace Hamilton, who is making the move to Ferrari.
Reflecting on his approach to the upcoming season, Russell emphasized that his goals remain largely consistent, with no major changes to his mindset. He pointed out that setting specific targets like winning a set number of races is unrealistic, as Formula 1’s dynamic nature means that each season brings new challenges. For example, a driver could win a set number of races one season, but if the car has the potential for more victories, achieving those targets could leave a driver feeling unfulfilled. Russell, therefore, prefers to focus on more detailed and specific objectives.
One key area Russell highlighted was his performance in Qualifying, which he considered a strength in 2024. However, he acknowledged that his race pace was not always on par with his qualifying form, and he is keen to improve in this area. While he believes he has the speed over one lap, Russell is determined to convert that advantage into consistent results across the entire race. He mentioned that improving certain elements of his racing would be crucial to achieving this, and although some of his goals may not be immediately obvious to fans, they are central to his focus as he prepares for the season.
Russell also stressed the need for adaptability in Formula 1. With each new season comes a new car, new challenges, and new limitations. What may have been a strength in the previous year might not necessarily be as effective in the current one. This ever-changing nature of the sport is something Russell enjoys, as it requires drivers and teams to continually adjust and refine their approach to each new season.
As preparations for the 2025 season ramp up following the winter break, Russell has returned to the Mercedes headquarters in Brackley with a strong sense of motivation. While the break is important for the mental and physical recovery of all those involved in Formula 1, Russell admitted that he was eager to get back to work and start preparing for the upcoming season. He explained that although the first race of the season is still some time away, the first day back at the team’s headquarters represents an important step forward.
For Russell, the physical aspect of his preparation is equally important. He began his fitness regimen on January 2, working with his trainer, Aleix. The initial weeks of training were demanding, but Russell emphasized the importance of easing into the physical preparation process to avoid injury. He kept himself active during the break to ensure he stayed mobile and did not become sedentary. Beyond the physical benefits, Russell sees exercise as a crucial component of his mental well-being. He believes that regular exercise helps him feel good and maintain a positive mindset, which is why he prioritizes it even during the off-season.
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Russell will participate in the unveiling of Mercedes’ new livery at the F1 75 Live event in London on February 18. The new car, the W16, will be revealed to the public on February 24, offering a glimpse into the team’s plans for the upcoming campaign. This will be followed by pre-season testing at the Bahrain International Circuit from February 26-28, with the first race of the season, the Australian Grand Prix, scheduled for March 14-16. As Russell gears up for the challenges of the new season, he remains focused on refining his performance and adapting to the changing demands of
Formula 1.
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