Former driver Juan Pablo Montoya sees how George Russell is in a difficult spot. Not only does the Mercedes driver have to watch his teammate Andrea Kimi Antonelli currently leading the drivers’ championship, but according to Montoya, it is especially difficult for Russell that the young Italian is so nice. “If someone is fast and a jerk, it is much easier to turn against him,” explains the former driver.
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George Russell was still the title favorite before the current season, but has since had to hand over this baton to teammate and world championship leader Andrea Kimi Antonelli. The difference between the Mercedes teammates is 59 world championship points in favor of Kimi Antonelli. According to former driver Juan Pablo Montoya, however, that is not the only challenge Russell faces after the summer break.
According to the seven-time Grand Prix winner, it is especially difficult to engage in a title fight with a nice driver like Kimi Antonelli. “The situation is difficult, because Kimi is incredibly fast, and he is also a very likeable guy,” Montoya tells F1. “If someone is fast and a jerk, it is much easier to turn against him and build up that anger to create the momentum to beat him. But if your opponent is so nice…”
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A new approach plan for Russell
Montoya also immediately comes up with a new tactic for Russell to take on his teammate. “I think George needs to find a way to keep up with Kimi. If he keeps up with Kimi, he puts Kimi in an uncomfortable position,” he thinks. “If George manages that, Kimi will try to find a way to beat him again. I think it can force Kimi into a difficult situation and force him to make mistakes.”
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