George William Russell, born on February 15, 1998, in King’s Lynn, Norfolk, England, is a British racing driver who has emerged as one of Formula One’s most promising talents. Competing for Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team, Russell has showcased remarkable skill and determination, earning him a reputation as a potential future world champion.
His journey from karting tracks to the pinnacle of motorsport is a testament to his talent, hard work, and the unwavering support of his family. As of the 2025 season, Russell has secured three Grand Prix victories and continues to be a key figure in Mercedes’ pursuit of championship glory.
George Russell parents
George’s parents, Steve and Alison Russell, have been instrumental in shaping his path to Formula One. Steve, a small business owner dealing in seeds and pulses, worked tirelessly to fund George’s early racing career. His long hours, often from seven in the morning to nine at night, were driven by a commitment to provide George with the resources needed to compete in the expensive world of karting and junior formulae. In total, Steve raised approximately £1.5 million to support his son’s dream, a sum George has since repaid, reflecting his gratitude for his father’s sacrifices. Steve’s involvement extended beyond finances; he served as George’s mechanic during his karting years and was a strict mentor, instilling discipline and a relentless drive for improvement. This tough love sometimes led to tension, with George recalling arguments between his parents over Steve’s high expectations, but it also molded him into the resilient competitor he is today.
Alison Russell, George’s mother, provided the emotional backbone of the family. While Steve pushed George to excel, Alison worked to maintain harmony, often mediating during challenging times. Her steadfast support was evident at races, where she cheered George on alongside his siblings. Together, Steve and Alison created a nurturing yet disciplined environment, fostering George’s passion for racing while ensuring he remained grounded.
Career
Russell’s motorsport journey began at the age of seven, inspired by his older brother Benjy, a competitive karter who won the 2007 Super 1 National Kart Championship. George quickly showed promise, claiming the MSA British Cadet Championship and British Open Championship in 2009, followed by the Super One British Championship and Kartmasters British Grand Prix in 2010. His karting prowess culminated in back-to-back CIK-FIA European Junior Championships in 2011 and 2012, establishing him as a standout talent.
In 2014, Russell transitioned to single-seater racing, competing in the BRDC Formula 4 Championship, which he won in his debut season despite a mid-season bout of chickenpox. That same year, he raced in Formula Renault 2.0 Alps, facing challenges but gaining valuable experience. His success continued in the FIA Formula 3 European Championship with Carlin Motorsport, where he secured a victory in his rookie season and finished third overall in 2016. Russell’s dominance in junior formulae peaked with the 2017 GP3 Series and 2018 FIA Formula 2 Championship titles, both won in his debut seasons with ART Grand Prix, making him one of only five drivers to win the Formula 2 title as a rookie.
Russell joined the Mercedes Junior Team in 2017, a pivotal step toward Formula One. His debut came in 2019 with Williams Racing, a struggling team where he consistently outperformed his car’s capabilities, earning the nickname “Mr. Saturday” for his qualifying prowess. In 2020, he substituted for Lewis Hamilton at the Sakhir Grand Prix, leading much of the race and finishing ninth, showcasing his potential. Russell’s move to Mercedes in 2022 marked a turning point, with his first podium at the Australian Grand Prix and his maiden victory at the 2022 São Paulo Grand Prix, leading a Mercedes one-two finish.
Accolades
Russell’s career is decorated with accolades that reflect his rapid ascent through motorsport. His karting achievements include the 2009 MSA British Cadet Championship, 2010 Super One British Championship, and CIK-FIA European Junior Championships in 2011 and 2012. In single-seater racing, he clinched the 2014 BRDC Formula 4 Championship and earned the McLaren Autosport BRDC Award, recognizing him as the most promising young British driver. His 2017 GP3 Series and 2018 FIA Formula 2 Championship titles further solidified his reputation, with the latter earning him the 2018 Autosport National Driver of the Year award.
In Formula One, Russell’s standout moments include his first podium at the 2021 Belgian Grand Prix with Williams and his first win at the 2022 São Paulo Grand Prix with Mercedes. He also received the George Russell Pole Position Cup for securing the most pole positions in the 2024 season. His consistent performances, including seven podiums in 2022 and three in the first five races of 2025, have drawn praise from figures like former Toyota driver Jarno Trulli, who sees Russell as a potential world championship contender.