Wolff praises Russell: 'Couldn't wish for a better number one'

17:36, 06 Aug

Updated: 19:19, 06 Aug

byCas van de Kleut

Despite longstanding rumors of Max Verstappen's switch to Mercedes, it's expected that the team will soon announce that George Russell is staying. Toto Wolff is enthusiastic about the role the Brit has taken on this year, as the Mercedes team boss told after the Hungarian Grand Prix.

Russell has faced questions about his future in recent times. The wildest rumours were that Verstappen had already signed with Mercedes. Eventually, the Dutchman confirmed in Hungary that he would simply stay with Red Bull Racing, making it expected that Mercedes will soon announce that Russell will remain with the team, just like teammate Andrea Kimi Antonelli.

Wolff praises Russell in role as lead driver

After the Hungarian Grand Prix, team boss Wolff reflected on the Formula 1 season up to the summer break. In it, the Austrian was extremely positive about Russell: "When I look at George, the development he's made since he joined Formula One from the fast kiddo in Williams and then being drafted into Mercedes, clearly with the greatest of all greats, with Lewis Hamilton."

"You've seen already last year he started to be so strong on pure pace in terms of the results, the stronger driver and now with Lewis having gone to Ferrari, he's taken a senior driver slot, and it completely came naturally, and he delivers. He delivers even when the car is not on the level; he outperforms the car."

George Russell driving at Spa-Francorchamps

Wolff: 'Russell the best lead driver Mercedes could wish for'

Finally, Wolff also commented on the impact Russell has behind the scenes: “We can always count on George and beyond the driving, obviously, he's also great. With our partners, and does a lot of activities that help us to build his brand and build our brand, so we couldn't wish for a better number one driver."