George Russell has set his sights firmly on delivering a standout performance at this weekend’s 2025 F1 British GP, with the Mercedes driver determined to impress at his home event. Following a difficult outing in Austria, Russell is keen to harness the energy of the Silverstone crowd and build on his pole position from last season.
A “huge weekend” for Russell and Mercedes
Speaking to media ahead of the 2025 F1 British GP, Russell dismissed any distractions surrounding his contract situation, choosing instead to place full emphasis on the task at hand.
“I am just focused on the driving,” he said. “Of course, this weekend is a huge weekend for us. For me, my home race is my favourite race of the year, and that is where I want to give all my focus and attention to try and win this GP.”
“We were on pole here last year. We were leading the first third of the race. Temperatures look slightly more favourable for us this weekend. Not as favourable as they were 12 months ago, but much more compared to Austria last week. And we know clearly that is where we struggled. So, yes, just excited for that.”
With Mercedes showing flashes of promise in 2025 but still seeking consistent form, the change in weather conditions may provide a timely advantage. The cooler forecast at Silverstone could play into the hands of the team after tyre-related issues in Austria hampered both Russell and team-mate Kimi Antonelli.
Russell vocal on FIA Presidential Picture
In his role as a director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), Russell also addressed the upcoming FIA presidential election. With speculation growing over whether a challenger will emerge to contest Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s position, Russell underlined the value of competition.
“I think in life, competition is always good because it brings out the best in people,” he said.
“It is something we have been vocal about in the past. It has probably got a little bit too much airtime in the past. Things have seemingly been moving in a better direction, which I think is just good news for everybody involved in the sport. But at the end of the day, if there are two people fighting for one position, you bring your A-game. It is a bit like a driver’s contract, I guess!”
Although he did not endorse any particular candidate, Russell’s remarks suggest that the GPDA continues to monitor developments at the top of the FIA with interest.
Childhood inspiration fuels Silverstone ambition
Silverstone holds deep emotional significance for Russell, who reflected on the powerful memory of his first visit to the circuit as a young karting hopeful. That experience, he explained, was instrumental in shaping his dream of reaching F1.
“It was the race start of the 2009 GP. I was sat on the outside of Copse, which was Turn 1 back then,” he said, continuing, “I just remember the noise and the speed, just sort of giving me goosebumps. I was racing in cadets at the time, and I knew that one day that is where I want to be.”
“Then it is where I did my first race, my first win, my first ever test in an F1 car was here as well, so a lot of memories.”
Those memories have helped form a lasting bond with the Silverstone circuit, one which Russell hopes will inspire him to deliver a memorable performance this weekend.
Powered by the home crowd
Russell will once again enjoy the full backing of a passionate home crowd at the 2025 F1 British GP. Tens of thousands of fans are expected to turn out in support, with Silverstone once more set to be one of the highlights of the Formula 1 calendar.
After scoring pole and leading early in 2024, Russell knows what it takes to challenge at the front at Silverstone. With the Mercedes W16 expected to perform better in cooler conditions, he will aim to convert potential into results and fight for victory in front of his home supporters.
The British GP presents not only a sentimental challenge but also a crucial moment in Mercedes’ season. For Russell, there could be no better place to reignite his campaign than at the track that once gave him goosebumps as a boy.
