Mercedes F1’s George Russell Focuses on Unwinding Between Races

Everyone knows System 1 drivers have one of many coolest jobs on this planet, however it may be simple to underestimate the dedication it takes to be aggressive — even away from the monitor. Mercedes’ George Russell is an ideal instance, utilizing his free time throughout his first yr on the crew to review up on be a frontrunner.

“I believe I wanted to have this yr underneath my belt to see what it takes to be a Mercedes System 1 driver competing on the entrance for podiums and hopefully for race victories,” Russell instructed Jalopnik throughout an interview that befell throughout the Las Vegas Grand Prix fan pageant on Nov. 5. “When you perceive what it takes, I believe you’ll be able to then dabble into different issues that carry some curiosity to you.”

With a brand new set of laws launched for the 2022 season, Russell has had one thing of a tough transition to Mercedes. The crew has misplaced its once-dominant type, which suggests these coveted podiums and race victories are all of the tougher to attain. That additionally means Russell is pondering extra about his on-track skills when he’s off the monitor, and that he makes use of his free time to decompress, not choose up a brand new talent.

“I believe I’m a reasonably right down to earth individual away from a monitor, and what I take pleasure in most is spending time with my household,” he mentioned. “My dad and mom dwell within the countryside and I like going there to have walks within the area. It’s a very good approach to stability the craziness of the System 1 way of life.

“Immediately we’re in Las Vegas. I flew in yesterday, I’m flying again at the moment, then I’m going to Brazil subsequent week. Generally you want that quiet stroll via the countryside to carry some peace to your life.”

All that being mentioned, Russell is aware of {that a} wholesome work-life stability might be key to sustaining on-track type.

“Lewis [Hamilton] has so many pursuits away from racing,” he mused. “It’s a great way of taking your thoughts away from the game and getting your self psychologically in an excellent area to then come again and carry out at your greatest. Once you undergo this rollercoaster of feelings, you want one thing typically simply to take your thoughts away from it.”

For this primary yr, although, Russell is soaking all of it in and, because the season has progressed, he’s began exploring what it will take to be taught a brand new language. A extra aggressive Mercedes in 2023 can be simply what Russell must hone new abilities — however for now, his focus is totally on getting Mercedes to that aggressive level.