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George Russell has revealed the logistical efforts that Mercedes made prior to its Formula 1 race debut with the team, which included preparing and transporting its racing suit in various countries.
The Briton’s short-term move to the reigning champion squad, where he has been a junior driver since early 2017, was only confirmed on Wednesday morning, the day after Lewis Hamilton announced that he had tested positive for COVID-19.
But speaking at the Sakhir Grand Prix pre-event press conference alongside his new teammate Valtteri Bottas, Russell explained that Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff had informed him that a possible temporary transfer it was a possibility at “2 am on Tuesday”.
Russell then explained how Mercedes had acted quickly to complete the various logistical challenges for his career debut, when asked what it meant to be chosen as Hamilton’s replacement for his future career opportunities at the team.
He said: “It means a lot to me that Mercedes gave me this opportunity because it was not easy for them, it was a great effort.” [that] went into making this deal a reality.
“And I really appreciate what they have done.
“Logistically, have the helmets painted within 24 hours, make the suits, take them from Italy [where Mercedes F1 race suits are made by Puma], to the UK, to Bahrain, there are so many things that have had to happen in the course of such a short period of time.
“Knowing that they were willing to do that means a lot to me and I think I have to make up for it with my best performance and my best efforts, regardless of the position that may be.”
Russell also said he was not entering Sakhir’s career with additional expectations, despite driving for a team that has won 13 of 15 races so far in 2020 after replacing Williams.
“For my part, I think there is no pressure,” he explained.
“They threw me at the last chance, I haven’t driven their simulator in two years, my seat is three years old.
“I have a lot of information to learn. And like I said, facing Valtteri is not going to be easy.
MORE: The Risk and Reward of Russell’s Mercedes Opportunity
“So I think I’m in a good position. I’m not putting any extra pressure on myself. I’m going to go out, I’m going to enjoy it.”
“And there have been no goals, no expectations that Toto, Mercedes expect of me.”
“Because you can’t judge someone based on a career, I think.
“This weekend it will be about learning, especially on Friday, focusing on qualifying and on Sunday’s race.
“And if I get the opportunity again next week in Abu Dhabi, who knows. It will be easier for me.”
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