George Russell has quietly put together one of the best campaigns of his Formula 1 career in 2025 — but somehow, his performances are being overshadowed by the hype around Max Verstappen and McLaren’s resurgence.
The Mercedes driver has been consistently sharp all year, combining raw pace with maturity behind the wheel. His dominant wins in Canada and Singapore reminded fans of just how good he can be when everything clicks.
From raw pace to refined consistency
Ever since his sensational qualifying lap in the wet at Spa in 2021 — when he put a Williams on the front row — Russell’s speed has never been in doubt. What many questioned, though, was his ability to stay error-free under pressure.
Last season’s Canadian Grand Prix raised eyebrows when a couple of mistakes cost him a likely win. But this year, Russell has turned that narrative around. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff praised him for cutting out those costly moments and showing leadership on and off the track.
“George has been formidable this year,” Wolff said after Singapore. “I haven’t seen mistakes. He’s stepped up massively — the car and driver are now working in perfect sync.”
Proving he belongs among the best
With 237 points and a huge lead over rookie teammate Kimi Antonelli, Russell currently sits fourth in the championship — a reflection of his consistency in a season where Mercedes haven’t always had the fastest car.
There was even brief speculation earlier this year about Russell’s future amid uncertainty around Verstappen’s situation at Red Bull, but that talk has faded. A new Mercedes contract is believed to be close to completion, reaffirming the team’s faith in their young Briton.
A world champion in the making?
Russell has shown all the qualities of a future world champion — pace, patience, and precision. If Mercedes can give him a truly competitive car next year, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him fighting for the title rather than being overlooked.
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