Mercedes Formula 1 driver George Russell shed light on his perplexing radio communication during preparations for the Japanese Grand Prix. The 27-year-old has been in impressive form at Suzuka, finishing in the top three during two of the three practice sessions, and securing fifth place in qualifying, outperforming teammate Kimi Antonelli. The Mercedes team, led by Russell and new teammate Antonelli, surprised many by positioning themselves as early contenders in the constructor standings, arriving in Japan holding second place.
Yet, during the first practice session, Russell’s radio message created a stir, baffling onlookers with his unexpected choice of words. Reporting on his car’s performance, which saw him finish third fastest, Russell said over the radio, “Yeah, I feel pretty donkey, but I don’t know why… I’m sliding the rear quite a lot.” The phrase caught attention after the day’s events, prompting Mercedes to raise questions on social media about their driver’s peculiar terminology.
In response, Russell clarified the context on Mercedes’ social media account, explaining, “I actually said ‘it feels donkey’. Donkey means slow, like donkeys are not fast animals, and it’s something that I used to say back in my go-karting days when the engine wasn’t performing well. It’s like having a donkey in the back; it’s just a term I’ve used before for when it feels a bit slow. We weren’t particularly quick at that session, so yeah, it feels pretty donkey, a new one to add to the collection.”
Russell’s explanation did more than just decode his language; it offered a glimpse into his personality and racing mindset, linking back to his roots in go-karting. This incident, while seemingly trivial, showcased how even lighthearted communication can highlight the dynamics within a team like Mercedes and their interactive approach to engaging with fans and followers alike.
The revelation serves as another chapter in the ever-evolving story of George Russell and his team, as they navigate the unique challenges of each Grand Prix. As Mercedes continues to hold their prominent position in the constructor standings, all eyes will be on Russell and his team to see whether these rapid interchanges can translate into further success on the track.
