George Russell needs to step up for Mercedes in 2025

George Russell needs to lead Mercedes from the get-go in 2025 and ensure that he delivers consistent results for the team.

George Russell needs to step up for Mercedes in 2025

Toto Wolff and George Russell (Via: Imago)

George Russell has been part of the Mercedes family for the better half of a decade. The British driver was promoted to the Silver Arrows in 2022 after three seasons at Williams. Now, with Lewis Hamilton moving to Ferrari next season, Russell will carry the mantle for the Brackley-based squad.

After Hamilton’s announcement at the start of 2024, Mercedes was forced to look for a suitable replacement. Toto Wolff expressed his interest in luring Max Verstappen from Red Bull. However, the Silver Arrows ultimately signed 18-year-old Kimi Antonelli.

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With Antonelli making his debut in F1 with Mercedes, George Russell will be the lead driver for the team. The Briton will need to establish himself as the team leader and build the team around him for the long-term.

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George Russell’s Mercedes future potentially at risk

Russell’s current contract expires at the end of 2025. Toto Wolff has asserted the Briton and Kimi Antonelli are the future of the Silver Arrows. However, former F1 champion Nico Rosberg claimed that George Russell and Antonelli will have a shootout next season.

George Russell
George Russell (Via: Imago)

The 26-year-old needs to deliver consistent results and outshine Antonelli from the get-go. As rumors have emerged that Wolff could try yet again to sign Max Verstappen for 2026. Subsequently, if George Russell fails to live up to expectations, Mercedes could simply sack him to make way for the three-time world champion.

Moreover, Mercedes understands that Kimi Antonelli will make some mistakes in his rookie season. This puts the burden on bringing results on George Russell. The 26-year-old has showcased glimpses of brilliance in the past. However, Wolff might not be ready to put all his eggs in Russell’s basket if Max Verstappen becomes available.

Certainly, George Russell has a lot on the line in 2025. The British driver will have no margin for error to ensure that he safeguards his future with Mercedes. Fans would hope that Russell brings in some great results for the Silver Arrows in the foreseeable future.

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