Russell’s perfect antidote to Montreal misfortune

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They say that when one door closes, a window opens – or in George Russell’s case, when victory slips away on the track, true perspective waits just beyond the paddock gates.

Following a heartbreaking Canadian Grand Prix where an ERS failure cost the Mercedes driver a potential victory, the Briton found the perfect antidote to his racing woes far from the pit lane.

Sharing a tender moment on Instagram on Sunday with his long-time partner, Carmen Montero Mundt, against a breathtaking lakeside backdrop, Russell aptly captioned the embrace: "Lucky in something."

It is a good reminder of what truly grounds the British driver. Since they began dating in 2020, Carmen has been an unwavering pillar of support. Balancing her own highly successful, self-made career in London's financial sector with regular paddock appearances, she brings a calm stability to the relentless demands of Grand Prix racing.

Having recently celebrated their five-year milestone, her presence remains Russell's ultimate sanctuary. While trophies and racetrack fortunes may ebb and flow, moments like these prove that some victories are entirely secure.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.