Former Formula 1 world champion Damon Hill has raised concerns about George Russell's mindset at Mercedes, following a difficult weekend for the British driver at the 2026 Miami Grand Prix. Speaking on the BBC's Chequered Flag podcast, Hill suggested Russell 'went missing' during the event, which saw his teammate, Kimi Antonelli, secure his third victory of the season.
The comments from Hill, alongside fellow former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya, highlight a growing narrative surrounding Russell's position within the Mercedes team. While Antonelli has been making headlines with a string of impressive performances, including his latest triumph in Miami, Russell appears to be struggling to match his teammate's pace and consistency. Antonelli's three wins this season firmly establish him as a strong contender, while Russell is yet to claim a victory in the current campaign.
The dynamic within the Mercedes garage is undoubtedly shifting, with Antonelli's rapid ascent creating pressure for Russell. Hill's assessment, 'He's gone missing', suggests a perceived lack of presence or impact from Russell during a crucial race weekend. This comes at a time when teams are constantly evaluating driver performance and future line-ups, especially in the competitive environment of Formula 1.
For Russell, a driver widely regarded as having significant potential, these comments from a respected figure like Hill will inevitably invite scrutiny. The challenge now for the British driver will be to address any underlying issues and demonstrate a return to the form that has previously marked him out as a future star. The disparity in results between the two Mercedes drivers in Miami was stark, and the pressure on Russell to perform will only intensify as the season progresses.