George Russell has given Formula 1 fans a glimpse into the light-hearted side of the Mercedes team by revealing the details of a playful prank targeting Lewis Hamilton. The George Russell Mercedes prank came to light as Russell marked his 150th race and reflected on a unique moment shared with his renowned teammate at the heart of the team’s operations.
Inside the Mercedes Office: A Nostalgic Surprise
Looking back on his early days as a young admirer within the Mercedes squad, Russell recounted an incident orchestrated by team engineer Evan. The scene unfolded in a Mercedes office, which was suddenly covered with 30 printed copies of a vintage photo showing a youthful Russell alongside his hero, Lewis Hamilton. The prank not only injected humor into the workspace but also highlighted the special dynamic between the two drivers.
“I think Lewis was more annoyed with it than I was,”
Russell admitted in an interview published on Mercedes’s YouTube channel. The experience served as a playful nod to their shared history and mutual respect, even as their rivalry on the track intensified.
“I thought it was great! This was pre-Lewis’s fashion sense, and I don’t think he appreciated it too much.”
— George Russell, Mercedes driver
A Competitive Partnership with Respectful Banter
Russell’s integration into Mercedes quickly saw him become a genuine contender, managing to finish ahead of Hamilton by 22 points during the recent ground effect era. Despite the close competition, the relationship between the two has been marked by respect and positivity. Hamilton himself previously commented on how seamless the partnership has been with Russell by his side:
“I won’t say it’s been tough; it’s been pleasant,”
stated Hamilton in July 2022, underlining that rivalry has not come at the expense of their camaraderie. The seven-time world champion praised Russell’s energy, adding,
“George has been super positive… It’s generally been a real pleasure to work with him.”
— Lewis Hamilton, former Mercedes driver
Chasing Potential and Learning from Setbacks
Hamilton’s support for Russell has extended well beyond the garage. The now-Ferrari driver has often highlighted Russell’s potential to reach championship status, referencing moments like the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix, where a victory narrowly slipped from Russell’s grasp due to an unfortunate puncture. On recalling this difficult moment, Russell shared:
“You always believe in yourself as a driver, but you just never know until you get the chance,”
Russell reflected.
“That was so painful for me, but my life is no different today had we won that race or not.”
— George Russell, Mercedes driver
What Lies Ahead for Mercedes and Its Dynamic Drivers
As the Formula 1 landscape continues to evolve with new regulations, speculation about a strong Mercedes power unit is fueling excitement for the 2023 season. Fans and analysts are watching closely, eager to see whether Russell’s sense of humor and rising talent will lead him toward championship glory, and how the partnership between Russell and Hamilton develops amid ongoing challenges and opportunities.
The story of the George Russell Mercedes prank has become emblematic of the vibrant atmosphere within the team—one where friendly mischief and deep respect go hand in hand. As Formula 1’s narrative moves forward, Mercedes remains at the center of attention, blending fierce competition with unforgettable moments both on and off the track.
