r/GeorgeRussell • u/ballerinabubbles • 13h ago
0.00 by George Russell | The Players’ Tribune
Its not Race Week so I just wanted to bring back one of my favourite George Russell articles. I assume most GR fans have seen this but its still a good read, especially during this very tiring season for him.
Some favourite parts below as well:
As a kid racing with his dad training him:
"I was confused more than anything. On Thursday with my dad, I thought I was mediocre. By Saturday, I was holding a trophy.
There was a three-year period where I won almost everything I could possibly win.
Next day with my dad. Click.
“Nope. Do it again.”
It took me probably six years to realise what was happening. Then I finally figured it out: My dad was purposefully clicking the stopwatch late. He was adding seconds to my time. He wanted me to always think I was just a bit slower than I was.
Even when I was winning everything, I could always push myself further. Always a little further."
The email to Toto:
I actually remember it very well. It was the Tuesday after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2014. I wrote something like:
Dear Toto,
My name’s George Russell. I race in Formula 4. I’ve just won the championship this season. I’m progressing into Formula 3 next year, and I’d love to sit down with you to have your advice for my future career.
I didn’t want to send a big CV like, This is me, sign me, sign me, sign me. I don’t know why. I just said, “I just want to have your advice.” I thought that was the best way to get face time with him.
He replied within 15 minutes.
Some quotes that I have come to think of as a peek into his mindset:
When racing is in your blood, everything is about time. It’s been the same since I was 10 years old.
Everything I do, from the minute I wake up in the morning, to the minute I go to sleep, is planned pretty much to the second in order to answer one question: Is this making me faster?
This is the first thing I’ve done in years that hasn’t been about looking forward. But I’m glad that I finally put my thoughts on paper — my real story. My real journey to this seat.
Honestly, I feel a bit lighter. A bit more free.
I believe in myself and my team. I am prepared for what is to come. I am ready to be champion.
The full article is a really good read! The other ones by other drivers are also excellent, particularly Bottas and Gasly ones.