Russell thinks Pirelli tyres are "bad" for racing. Photo: RacePictures.

Russell dissects 'smallest of margins' that led to upturn in form

11:36, 24 Oct

byLuke-John Buckle

George Russell explained how he has been able to step up his performance this season and ignore the rumours around Max Verstappen joining the team in the future.

"You're just looking for those smallest of margins."

- George Russell

Russell has stepped into the team leader role at Mercedes seamlessly after seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton departed for Ferrari this year.

The British driver is spearheading Mercedes' charge towards second in the Constructors' Championship alongside rookie teammate Andrea Kimi Antonelli.

Russell explained to the media ahead of the Mexico City Grand Prix that the small details can make a significant difference, and he is ignoring all the talk in the media.

He said: "You're just looking for those smallest of margins to take your level to the next step, and I think there isn't one particular thing that has been the difference.

"I think it's a contribution of confidence with my own ability, confidence with the car beneath me, confidence with my group of engineers who are the ones who directly impact my own performance.

"Psychologically as well, I've got a very good group of people around me, away from the track, that help me to be in the right place when I come to the circuit."

Russell has won two races this season in Canada and Singapore amid a very competitive campaign.

Goerge Russell in Singapore. Photo RacePictures.

Russell added that he has been able to ignore a lot of what is said during media day on Thursday and fully focus on the job he has to do on race weekends.

He added: "This external noise, to be honest, is only noise on a Thursday, and for me, it was in one ear, out the other and moving forward."

Mercedes are fighting for second in the Constructors' Championship

Mercedes sits second in the standings in five rounds to go, although just 10 points separate the German team, Ferrari and Red Bull.

This allows for very little margin for error in the closing stages of the world championship. Ferrari took home a good haul of points from Austin with second and fourth place finishes.

Meanwhile, Red Bull has a slightly different dynamic with Verstappen consistently ahead of his teammate, Yuki Tsunoda.

Despite Tsunoda's lacklustre speed, Red Bull are fighting for second as Verstappen has won three of the last four races.

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