George Russell publicly defended Mercedes’ decision to order him to let teammate Kimi Antonelli pass at the Dutch Grand Prix, reversing his initial frustration over the team order. Antonelli had started ahead but was fitted with fresh soft tyres during a late-race virtual safety car, closing the gap to Russell while the Ferraris of Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc closed in behind.
Russell acknowledged post-race that Antonelli’s pace on the new tyres likely would have secured the overtake anyway, even if he had fought to retain position. He conceded the podium finish was at risk before the virtual safety car stabilized his position, with Hamilton and Leclerc closing rapidly on fresher rubber. Russell’s compliance cost him roughly two seconds relative to his pace, raising questions about the timing of Mercedes’ tyre strategy.
The move underscores a shift in Russell’s approach, prioritizing long-term team harmony over short-term title points. His measured public response contrasts with earlier radio complaints, signaling a calculated effort to maintain Mercedes’ support amid a tight championship battle.
