Russell sidelined from media duties in Baku due to illness

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Mercedes has confirmed that George Russell will not take part in his scheduled media responsibilities on Thursday at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, citing health concerns.

The 27-year-old Briton has been one of the season’s most consistent performers, missing out on points in only one of the 15 races so far.

But with the high-intensity weekend in Baku ahead, Russell has opted to conserve his energy rather than fulfill his media obligations after feeling under the weather.

“Unfortunately, George won’t be at track today because he’s feeling unwell and resting up ahead of tomorrow’s track action,” the team announced in a post on X.

The development leaves the team's media obligations for the day to be handled exclusively by Kimi Antonelli, who steps up to represent the squad in front of the press.

Looking Ahead Amid Contract Speculation

Russell’s absence comes at a time of ongoing speculation about his long-term future with Mercedes.

While team principal Toto Wolff has publicly stated that Russell – and Antonelli – will remain with the squad next season, formal contract announcements have has yet to be made for both drivers.

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Russell: Engine strength alone won’t see Mercedes prevail in 2026

With the first on-track sessions set to begin Friday, Mercedes is confident Russell will be fit to take part in the weekend’s action.

His immediate target remains consolidating his fourth position in the championship while keeping pressure on Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and narrowing the gap to Max Verstappen in third.

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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.