Russell Recalls Hilarious Photo Prank That 'Annoyed' Hamilton

George Russell revealed a lighthearted moment from his past with Lewis Hamilton, recalling how a prank photo left his future teammate 'annoyed' back in 2017. The story highlights the long-standing dynamic between the two, which was later tested during Russell's near-miss victory for the team at the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix.

Why it matters:

The anecdote offers a rare glimpse into the personal dynamic between Mercedes' two drivers, long before they became teammates. It frames their current relationship, which has evolved from a veteran champion and an 'annoying' junior to two equals fighting for wins and podiums for the Silver Arrows.

The details:

• The 2017 Prank: During his first race weekend as a Mercedes junior in Baku, an engineer printed around 30 copies of a photo showing a 10-year-old Russell with Hamilton and plastered them around the team office. Russell found it hilarious, but suspects Hamilton, given his "pre-fashion sense" at the time, was less amused.
• The 2020 Sakhir Stand-in: Russell also recalled his Mercedes debut, replacing Hamilton who tested positive for COVID. He dominated the race in a car he described as a "beast" and "like a PlayStation," but a botched pit stop under the Safety Car and a late puncture cost him a certain victory.

Looking ahead:

While the stories are from the past, they contextualize the current era at Mercedes. Russell has since established himself as a race winner for the team, and these early experiences—from office pranks to high-pressure substitute drives—have shaped the journey of the two drivers now leading the Brackley-based squad's charge.