Russell eyes energetic start to new Mercedes era

George Russell is targeting a strong start to the 2025 F1 season, with him revealing that Mercedes has a "great energy" throughout the camp. 

It is the start of a new era for the Brackley-based team, who launched its first F1 car – the W16 – which will not be driven by Lewis Hamilton for the first time since 2012 on Monday afternoon.

In what is his fourth season with the Silver Arrows, Russell has become the team's leader, given that his new team-mate is 18-year-old Kimi Antonelli. 

Russell enters the upcoming campaign full of confidence in both himself and the W16, and is excited to support Antonelli.

"I feel like last year was my strongest in F1," said Russell. "This coming season will be my seventh in the sport, and fourth with the works Mercedes team, and I'm working hard to improve year-on-year. 

"As a team, we are incredibly motivated to improve on last season. There is a great energy within the factories at Brackley and Brixworth so I'm eager to take to the track.

"It's also exciting having a new team-mate in Kimi this year. He's incredibly quick and I think we will make a great partnership. 

"Naturally, there is a lot for him to learn in his first season but I'm looking forward to helping him do that and working together to help push the team forward."

Antonelli preparations

As for Antonelli, he is one of six full-time rookies on the grid this year. The young Italian certainly has speed, although crashed on his debut in Monza first practice last season. 

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has put a lot of faith in Antonelli by promoting him to replace Hamilton, following the seven-time world champion's move to Ferrari. 

Antonelli has spent the winter break preparing for his competitive debut, but first has pre-season testing to navigate this week in Bahrain.

"I'm excited to make my debut in F1 this year," said Antonelli. "It is a great opportunity, and I am very thankful to everyone at Mercedes for the faith and trust they've placed in me. 

"I've been working hard over the winter to be as ready as I can possibly be and now, I can't wait to get started.

"My focus is on continuing to learn, being consistent, and doing the best job I can for the team. I'm looking forward to working with George; we're already gelling well and it's great to have the support of someone who has come through the junior programme too. 

"He is an incredibly strong driver and together I think we will make a great duo."