Toto Wolff maintains confidence in George Russell, despite the significant setback the Brit suffered during the Canadian GP. At Circuit Gilles Villeneuve – a track that normally suits him well – Russell retired after thirty laps, after which Kimi Antonelli inherited an easy victory. The young Italian thereby made a significant move in the championship standings. Russell hasn’t won a race since Australia, but according to Wolff, he will quickly recover.
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43 points. That is the current difference between Kimi Antonelli and George Russell. The unleashed teenager is winning hearts all over the world, while Russell mainly attracted attention with his tantrum after retiring in Canada. Nevertheless, Wolff expresses his confidence in a quick resurgence of the Brit. His resilience, in particular, is said to be one of his greatest qualities. “In the last few races, he (Russell, ed.) has had to deal with quite a few setbacks,” Wolff admitted to the media. “And that while he was initially leading,” he referred to the race weekend in Canada.
Resilience
“But if anyone in this paddock possesses resilience and determination, it’s George,” he emphasized. “He has had to overcome setbacks many times before, both in karts and in junior categories. He doesn’t give up easily.” Although Antonelli is now leading 4-1 in victories, the season is still long. Moreover, many experts expect Ferrari to catch up during the Monaco GP, meaning Mercedes must also account for extra competition.
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“There are still seventeen races to go and therefore an enormous number of points to be earned,” Wolff acknowledged. “Russell will process this disappointment, leave it behind, and look forward again. And then he will do what he always does – race as hard as possible.” This year’s F1 season has twenty-two Grands Prix due to the cancellation of the races in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. It is possible that these will still be added to the calendar later in the year, creating even more opportunities for Russell to get his revenge.
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