During the second practice session of the 2025 Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix, George Russell‘s accident brought activity to a sudden stop. The Mercedes driver crashed at Turn 16, causing a red flag and interrupting the session as repairs were made to the barriers he hit.
Russell lost control under braking early in the session, hitting the barriers head-on. Although the collision resulted in a punctured front-left tire and a damaged front wing, Russell managed to return the car to the pit lane without further incident. Despite the crash, the damage was contained to the vehicle’s front wing, which required replacement.
Details of the Crash and Session Halt
The incident took place within the first 20 minutes of FP2, forcing the session to pause while marshals cleared the track and repaired the barrier. The hold on the session lasted approximately ten minutes. Shortly after the track reopened, Liam Lawson triggered a second red flag, causing further delays to the practice.
Russell shared his thoughts about the crash via team radio, describing the moment as unexpected. His reflection after the event revealed uncertainty around the cause. Mercedes later confirmed that Russell would not return to the session due to the damage sustained.
A bit of a weird one to be honest. I’m not too sure what happened,
Russell said.
I braked a bit earlier, went in a bit slower, but lost the rear. Thankfully I went in front-end on and didn’t do too much damage but it was game over.
A bit annoying, sorry to the team for that, but better it happened today than tomorrow.
– George Russell, Mercedes F1 Driver
Russell’s Strong Form in 2025
Despite this setback in Singapore, George Russell has been showing impressive form throughout the 2025 Formula 1 season. He secured a second-place finish at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku, demonstrating resilience while competing despite being unwell. This podium marks a significant achievement for the driver and the Mercedes team.
While Russell’s performances continue to impress, his contract status with Mercedes remains unresolved. Team principal Toto Wolff has reassured fans that Russell and teammate Kimi Antonelli will stay with Mercedes for the upcoming season, despite delays in finalizing new agreements.
Russell addressed the ongoing contract talks, emphasizing the importance of careful negotiation at this stage of his career. He described the process as requiring fairness and mutual benefit for all parties involved.
I think for any driver, when you get to a certain point in your career, things have to be done right,
Russell explained.
Every time you renew a contract, it’s the most important one of your life, and it has to be done with good care. There’s nothing to worry about. It will get done.
It’s just about something that’s fair, mutually beneficial. I think that’s what we all will chase. It’s obviously different for certain drivers who may have a bit more power, may have a bit less power. No more updates, nothing to report, and I’ll be glad to tell you all once there is.
– George Russell, Mercedes F1 Driver
Impact of the Incident and Looking Ahead
The interruption caused by Russell’s crash emphasizes the unpredictable nature of racing in Singapore’s challenging street circuit. The delay affected the drivers’ time on track and disrupted their preparation ahead of the remainder of the weekend’s sessions. The incident underscores the importance of precision and car control on such demanding circuits.
Moving forward, Russell and Mercedes will be focused on ensuring the vehicle is race-ready and can perform reliably during qualifying and the Grand Prix. Russell’s contract situation will also remain a talking point as the team and driver aim to finalize terms that enable continued collaboration in the seasons ahead.
