George Russell Reflects on Belgian GP Disqualification: A Bittersweet Victory Amid Weight Controversy

George Russell views the Belgian Grand Prix as a victory in his eyes, even after his disqualification was confirmed.

George Russell has shared insights into the reasons for his unfortunate disqualification after the F1 Belgian Grand Prix race.

Russell managed to hold back a strong challenge from his fellow Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton to initially lead a Mercedes 1-2 finish at the Spa-Francorchamps race, but was later disqualified when his vehicle was discovered to be 1.5kg below the required weight limit.

Before the Grand Prix in Zandvoort, Netherlands, Russell mentioned that several reasons contributed to the disqualification.

In response to whether he believes the team has a full grasp of the situation, Russell affirmed, "Yes, definitely. It's evident we didn't perform as well as we should have."

"I shed a little more weight than anticipated during the race, the tyres experienced more wear than we had predicted, and the plank also endured more wear than we had initially thought."

"Thus, it was essentially a combination of three or four elements converging that ultimately tipped us past the breaking point."

The 26-year-old individual from Britain also disclosed that they were aware they had been affected by their own weight reduction.

"He suggested that it wasn't necessary to increase the margin, attributing the oversight to the processes not being adequately prepared to handle every possible situation."

"Before the race started, I was aware that I was slightly underweight, but it was too late for any significant adjustments unless I considered consuming a steak or similar, which likely wouldn't have been the wisest choice for a pre-race meal!"

"However, looking back, we realize there are areas we can improve upon, and we're committed to making those improvements going forward. It often takes making an error to realize there's an issue that needs addressing."

Even with the disqualification, Russell regards the Belgian Grand Prix as a victory in his eyes.

"Obviously, it's quite disheartening that the only instance in three years where we barely stayed within the weight limit coincided with our victory, but I hold no grudges," he mentioned. "We're united in this endeavor, and it will only fortify us moving forward.

"I may have dropped 25 points, but to me, it's still a victory. My helmet will join my other two trophies on the nightstand beside my bed.

"The jubilant moments I shared with my team immediately following the race were among the most exhilarating experiences of my career. Therefore, I'll focus solely on the positive aspects of the event."

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