Shocking: Mercedes star reveals health scare after Las Vegas GP…Read more
Mercedes star reveals health scare after Las Vegas GP
Mercedes Formula 1 driver George Russell has revealed a health scare following last year’s Las Vegas Grand Prix, where he contracted pneumonia that affected him throughout the winter break.
The revelation came after Russell secured a surprise victory at this year’s Las Vegas GP, leading a historic one-two finish for Mercedes ahead of teammate Lewis Hamilton.
Carlos Sainz finished third, while Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen rounded out the top five.
Verstappen’s performance cemented his fourth consecutive world championship, but the unexpected dominance of the Mercedes duo stole the spotlight.
This season has been challenging for Mercedes, with both Russell and Hamilton struggling to match the pace of their rivals despite flashes of promise earlier in the year.
The team currently sits fourth in the constructors’ standings, trailing third-placed Red Bull by over 100 points.
With only two races remaining, Mercedes is eager to close the season on a high note, particularly as they prepare for significant changes, including Hamilton’s move to Ferrari and the arrival of Kimi Antonelli in 2025.
Russell was thrilled with his Las Vegas victory but admitted he refrained from a traditional celebration—jumping into the Bellagio fountain—due to the cold weather and concerns about his health.
Reflecting on last year’s experience, the 26-year-old explained how the toll of the champagne-soaked celebrations, combined with the intense schedule, contributed to his pneumonia diagnosis.
“I really wanted to jump into the fountain, but it was so cold, and I remembered how ill I was last year,” Russell said.
“This time last year, I got pneumonia and was sick all the way until mid-February. It’s such a toll on the body.”
While Mercedes celebrates its rare victory, the team remains focused on making strides for the future.
For Russell, avoiding another health setback was a top priority, ensuring he could fully enjoy his hard-earned triumph without risking his well-being.
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