Despite joining Mercedes during a period when the team has struggled to challenge for Formula 1 World Championships, George Russell remains optimistic about his chances of winning a title. He draws a parallel to Michael Schumacher’s move to Ferrari in 1996, a partnership that did not yield a championship until 2000.
Now in his seventh full F1 season and fourth with Mercedes, British driver George Russell has recorded four Grand Prix wins since joining the team in 2022. His most recent victory came at the 2025 Canadian Grand Prix, contributing to a career total of 886 points. Although Mercedes has faced setbacks, particularly with a suspension update early in the 2025 season, Russell continues to be a contender for third place in the overall championship standings.
However, with the McLaren drivers Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris dominating the top positions, Russell’s pursuit of a world championship remains challenging.
Challenges faced by Russell and the evolving F1 landscape
Russell, however, maintains his focus and determination. Speaking to Motorsport.com, he said,
“I’m definitely more hungry than ever just to try and perform.”
He added,
“I would have hoped by now, seven seasons in, I would have at least had a year of fighting for a championship. When I joined Mercedes, we thought every year would be a championship fight.”
Unfortunately, it hasn’t turned out that way.
—George Russell, Formula 1 driver
Mercedes has struggled to find the right setup in the current ground effect era, initially experimenting with a zero-sidepod design. This concept, though innovative, ultimately hindered their competitiveness, leaving Russell and teammate Lewis Hamilton behind the leading Red Bull cars.
Russell finds some reassurance knowing other top drivers are experiencing similar difficulties.
It’s been the same for Charles [Leclerc] as well,
he noted about the Ferrari driver.
Arguably, nobody would have predicted two years ago McLaren would have made this step. Lando did five years with them and had no fight either. So, you’ve just got to accept the fact that that is the nature of F1. That’s always been the case.
—George Russell, Formula 1 driver
Comparing his journey to Schumacher’s rise with Ferrari
Russell made a striking comparison to Michael Schumacher’s trajectory, underscoring his patience for future success. He highlighted Schumacher’s persistence during his early years at Ferrari.
And you look at Michael Schumacher, he was in his fifth year with Ferrari, in his 30s, before he won a championship with them,
Russell explained.
I’m 27, so I’ve still got a bit of time on my side.
—George Russell, Formula 1 driver
Schumacher had already won two consecutive titles with Benetton in 1994 and 1995 before joining Ferrari, which explains the initial delay before delivering championships with his new team. His later dominance was built upon the strong foundation of his established skill and experience.
Looking ahead: Russell’s path with Mercedes and future prospects
Russell’s comparison captures how success in Formula 1 can require time, with drivers needing the right synergy between their skillset and the team’s mastery of technical regulations. Mercedes hopes to adapt and improve through upcoming seasons, aiming to return to championship contention by 2026.
The immediate focus for Russell will be securing his role within Mercedes through a contract extension, as both the driver and team prepare for the challenges ahead.