George Russell will feel the heat at Mercedes in 2025

George Russell will be under pressure to solidify himself as team leader at Mercedes with the arrival of Kimi Antonelli next season.

George Russell will feel the heat at Mercedes in 2025

Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Toto Wolff, and George Russell (via IMAGO)

George Russell was considered the de-factor leader at Mercedes following Lewis Hamilton‘s Ferrari announcement earlier this year. However, as the 2025 season approaches, its the 26-year-old who will be facing pressure within the team.

Russell was promoted to Mercedes in 2022 to partner Lewis Hamilton. The former Williams driver proved his mettle as he managed to deliver consistent performances against the seven-time world champion. However, rumors emerged that the Silver Arrows were interested in signing Max Verstappen.

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Ultimately, Toto Wolff signed 18-year-old Kimi Antonelli to fill in for Lewis Hamilton. This might seem as a relief for George Russell, yet it could make things more complicated for the 26-year-old if he does not defeat Antonelli during their first season as teammates.

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George Russell needs to prove himself as team leader

It seems that Mercedes lacks faith in Russell’s capabilities to lead the team. The fact that the team has publicly admitted to wanting to have Verstappen in 2026 shows that George Russell is not regarded as its main long-term prospect anymore.

George Russell and Max Verstappen's verbal altercation (via IMAGO)
George Russell and Max Verstappen’s verbal altercation (via IMAGO)

Kimi Antonelli has already impressed the Brackley-based squad, particularly Toto Wolff. If the Italian driver succeeds in matching Russell consistently, Mercedes would have no real reason to retain the 26-year-old for the long term.

George Russell would be aware of the risk he faces at the Silver Arrows. A poor start to the 2025 season could turn the tide completely in favor of his rookie teammate. On the other hand, Russell would need to prove his worth virtually every weekend.

Mercedes has even signed Valtteri Bottas as a reserve driver for next season. The Finn would unlikely be considered for a full-time seat by the Silver Arrows. Yet, Bottas’ arrival would further create doubts in Russell’s mind over the faith the team has on him. Nevertheless, if George Russell can fight for wins from the get go in 2025, his spot within Brackley would stay safe.

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