In a recent statement that has caught the attention of Formula 1 fans and analysts alike, Mercedes driver George Russell has brushed off concerns about the challenges of disabling Drag Reduction System (DRS) during races, calling it simply “part of the job” for drivers in the sport. The comment comes in the wake of a dramatic crash involving Alpine reserve driver Jack Doohan, which has reignited discussions about the safety and skill required to manage the aerodynamic aid effectively.
The incident occurred during a testing session last week, when Doohan lost control of his car shortly after deactivating DRS, resulting in a high-speed spin that ended with his vehicle in the barriers. Fortunately, Doohan emerged unscathed, but the crash has sparked fresh scrutiny over the demands placed on drivers when handling DRS—a mechanism that temporarily reduces drag to boost overtaking opportunities but requires precise timing to switch off safely.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the next Grand Prix, Russell appeared unfazed by the incident and the broader debate it has triggered. “Look, it’s something we all deal with,” the British driver said. “Turning off DRS at the right moment, managing the car’s balance—it’s just what we’re trained to do. It’s part of the job, and you’ve got to get it right.” His calm demeanor contrasts with some of the chatter trending on X, where fans and commentators have speculated about whether the system introduces unnecessary risk, particularly for less experienced drivers like Doohan.
Doohan, who has been tipped as a potential future star for Alpine, admitted post-crash that the sudden shift in downforce caught him off guard. “It’s a fine line,” he said. “You’re pushing the limits, and sometimes it bites you.” While the Australian driver has downplayed the severity of the incident, it has fueled calls from some corners of the paddock to reassess how DRS is implemented, especially during non-race conditions like testing.
Russell, however, seemed to double down on the idea that such challenges are inherent to Formula 1’s high-stakes environment. The 27-year-old, who sits comfortably among the sport’s elite, pointed to the adaptability required in modern racing. “We’ve got so many systems to manage—DRS is just one of them. It’s not about making it easier; it’s about mastering it,” he added.