George Russell stated that Ferrari has become a serious competitor to Mercedes' ambitions in the championship following the team's difficult weekend at Silverstone. Russell finished second in the British Grand Prix, which he called 'successful.'
Silverstone Race Results
Russell admitted that Ferrari presents a real threat to Mercedes' title aspirations by securing a deserved second place behind Charles Leclerc at the British Grand Prix. He noted that his success was largely due to luck, as he achieved his first podium at the home track of Silverstone.
After Sunday's race, Russell shared his impressions: 'I am so happy to be here. This is my first podium here, at Silverstone, and I am thrilled, even if it was a very lucky race!' He explained that he had a tire puncture, but a fortunate intervention by the safety car at the end helped him finish second. Russell added that his team faced straight-line speed issues, and now 'this Ferrari team looks very fast. So the game has begun!'
Mercedes Team Problems
Russell's compatriot, championship leader Kimi Antonelli, finished in 16th place. His problems began after damage to the wheel guard. Although he looked capable of catching and overtaking Leclerc on fresh tires in the final laps, he had to make two pit stops for repairs. Antonelli ignored the team's advice to retire the car, trying to earn at least one championship point, but received a penalty for exceeding track limits.
Kimi Antonelli expressed dissatisfaction with the situation, stating: 'I couldn't even get one point.' He also noted that when it seemed he could earn points, the safety car appeared, and he received a penalty. The young driver emphasized that despite the rules, he considers it unfair, especially when he was trying to stay on track but couldn't after the stoppage. He reported that the car felt controllable after the stop but did not turn well in corners, and he constantly touched the curb.
The team tried to resolve the issue but failed. Antonelli regrets this, believing they had a real chance at victory. This Italian teenager has completed three races without points, having previously withdrawn from the Spanish race due to electrical malfunctions, and has not won a Grand Prix since ending his run of five wins in Monaco.