Russell ‘not too bitter’ about lack of F1 title challenge

Patience is a virtue for George Russell who says that he will bide his time and wait for the tide to turn at Mercedes to challenge for the world title in F1.

After joining Mercedes in 2022, Russell had high hopes of challenging for the top honors. However, the team's current struggles have dashed his aspirations, leaving him in a frustrating situation where he is unable to showcase his abilities to the fullest.

After snatching his first F1 win last season in Brazil, Russell claimed only a pair of podiums in 2023, while he was also comprehensively outscored by his Mercedes teammate Lewis Hamilton in the Drivers’ standings.

Beyond the stats and Mercedes’ performance shortfall, Russell knows where he also personally faltered.

But despite a difficult campaign, the 25-year-old’s confidence and ambitions remain intact as he knows that fortune favors the brave… and the patient.

• Read also: Russell ready for stress free winter reset after 2023 downer

“We’re all here to fight for victory, we’re all here to fight for championships,” he told Motorsport Magazine.

“And that’s not just the 2,000 people that work for Mercedes, this is the thousands of people who work at Ferrari, McLaren and everybody else that works down this grid – they are fighting for victory.

"And this is the sad reality of Formula 1 – only one team can get it right. And, often, when you do get it right, you get it very right and it’s very difficult to turn the tide and chase back up.

“So, of course I wanted to achieve a lot more this season. It’s been… regardless of the being victory-less, there’s probably been seven or eight podiums I could’ve had this year… and I’m disappointed with myself in that there’s been a few on my shoulders.

“I think when you’re on the back foot, everything often goes against you. But when the car is flying, everything goes for you. So, clearly we need to work on one thing. I look at the positives.”

Russell recalls the trials and tribulations faced by one Max Verstappen before the Dutchman was able to challenge for glory with Red Bull Racing, while he also takes inspiration from F1 veteran Fernando Alonso whose fighting spirit and determination remain intact at 42.

“I’m 25-years-old, I feel like I’ve got a good at least 15 years left in me,” the Briton added.

“When I look at Fernando, and when I look at Max], I think he was in his seventh year before he fought for a title.”

Russell noted that he is not alone in F1 among those patiently waiting for a shot at the big prize.

“So, we need to bide our time, as frustrating as it is,” he acknowledged.

“But you’ve got great drivers like Charles [Leclerc] in the exact same position, Lando in the exact same position. And this was Max four or five years ago in 2020 and prior.

“So, I’m not too bitter about it.

“Of course I would love my fortunes to be different, but my time will come.”

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