Former F1 driver and analyst Jolyon Palmer says George Russell is feeling the heat at Mercedes, stating the Briton is “still not there” when compared with teammate Kimi Antonelli after the Dutch Grand Prix.
Mercedes secured a double podium at Zandvoort, with both drivers finishing second and third behind McLaren’s Lando Norris. However, the team’s last‑minute order for Russell to yield track position to Antonelli has become a major talking point following the race.
Antonelli had been ahead of Russell before Mercedes called the latter in for a stop. Upon his return on fresh tyres, the pit wall instructed a swap of positions. Russell initially protested on team radio, warning that the change could cost the team a double podium, but he later endorsed the decision after the race.
George Russell, Mercedes
Photo by: Alastair Staley / LAT Images via Getty Images
Palmer added that Russell ultimately lacked pace on the day, though he acknowledges a better overall weekend, yet “still not there” in terms of performance.
Looking at the season standings, Kimi continues to deliver outstanding results, notching another solid outing today. His consistency raises the bar, intensifying the pressure on George. Palmer expects Russell to eventually admit he “wasn’t quite there today,” citing start issues and the need for further improvement.
Russell’s third‑place finish moves him into second place in the Drivers’ Championship, holding a tie on 183 points with Lewis Hamilton. Antonelli remains in the lead, extending his advantage to 59 points after amassing 242 total points.