Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team: A New Era
As the Formula One (F1) team transitions into a new era following Lewis Hamilton’s departure to Ferrari next season, George Russell is ready to take on the mantle of lead driver. With the signing of 18-year-old Italian rookie, Kimi Antonelli, to replace the seven-time world champion and F1’s one of the most decorated driver Hamilton, Russell will need to step up his role.
A New Chapter Ahead
Speaking ahead of this weekend’s Qatar Grand Prix (GP), Russell expressed his readiness for a new chapter with the team, marking his fourth year with the Silver Arrows in 2025. "The success the team had with Lewis’ has been astonishing and they’ve achieved a lot together. But I think, this change is needed for Lewis…Next year is going to be exciting," he said.
Supporting Antonelli
Russell also emphasized his role in supporting Antonelli in adapting to F1. "I absolutely know what is required from myself as a (main) driver, and I am also here to support Kimi in adapting to F1. He’s a young kid with a lot of energy, a lot of speed and brings a new energy that will push us both forward," he said.
Strong Finish and 2025 Goals
The 26-year-old Briton, who led Mercedes’ 1-2 victory for his third GP win at Las Vegas last weekend, said that he and Antonelli are already working hard to have fastest cars for next year with hopes of achieving better results. Russell agreed that a strong finish would boost the team’s confidence and momentum for a strong start in 2025.
Challenges Ahead
"We are fully aware that in Formula One, success is measured across 24 races. While we have delivered strong performances in several rounds, maybe about five, we’ve also had races where we were just average and a few where we were clearly off the pace," Russell explained. "So we need to ensure the work we do over the winter is to help us have a race car that is faster over the course of 24 races and not just exceptionally fast in a handful. We’re racing against the clock…While we know our improvements, if our rivals match or surpass them, the outcome remains uncertain. If they fall short, we’ll have a chance to win."
Looking Beyond 2025
However, Russell pointed out that the teams are already looking beyond next year as F1 is revving-up for major regulation change in 2026, including changes to the car design, power units, financial regulations, and the usage of 100 percent sustainable fuel. "In 2022, we saw a major regulation change focused solely on the cars, while In 2014, it was the engines. But in 2026, it will be a massive overhaul for both the car and engine, making it a critical focus from Jan 1st onward," he said.
Conclusion
As the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One team embarks on a new era, George Russell is ready to take on the mantle of lead driver and support Kimi Antonelli in adapting to F1. With a strong finish and 2025 goals in mind, the team is focused on delivering better results. However, the challenges ahead, including the major regulation change in 2026, will require careful planning and execution.
FAQs
Q: What is the major regulation change in 2026?
A: The major regulation change in 2026 includes changes to the car design, power units, financial regulations, and the usage of 100 percent sustainable fuel.
Q: How will the team balance development between 2025 and 2026?
A: The team will need to balance development between 2025 and 2026, taking into account the financial cost cap in place and the need to prioritize resources.
Q: What are the team’s goals for 2025?
A: The team’s goals for 2025 include delivering better results and having the fastest cars on the track.