George Russell makes ‘five laps’ statement on F1 title chances as Mercedes launch new car
The IndependentSign up to our free sport newsletter for all the latest news on everything from cycling to boxing Sign up to our free sport email for all the latest news Sign up to our free sport email for all the latest news SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy George Russell insists he will know “within five laps” of testing whether he can win the F1 world championship this year. “I think within five laps you know whether you’re in for a good season or not,” Russell said. “2026 is a big one but I’m optimistic we can have a decent season.” Russell was embroiled in a heated row with four-time world champion Max Verstappen at the end of last year in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, but the British racer looked to lower the temperature heading into the new campaign. open image in gallery George Russell is heading into his fourth season with Mercedes In Qatar, Russell said Verstappen vowed to put him “on his f****** head in the wall” – calling the Dutch driver a “bully” and adding that his comments were “unacceptable”.
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George Russell makes bold ‘five laps’ statement on Mercedes F1 title chances in 2025
The Independent
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