George Russell: "The paddock is a very high-profile place, and I love expressing my style
At 26, the English driver is rejuvenating the podiums of the Mercedes team, while Formula 1 is undergoing its generational transformation. We met this passionate driver with a steely mind and the physique of a young star, ambassador of the Tommy Hilfiger brand.
Photography by Mathieu Cesar
Styling Vanessa Bellugeon
L’OFFICIEL HOMMES: Legend has it that you already dreamed of a podium in Formula 1 when you were little, is that true?
GEORGE RUSSEL: Yes, that's true. As far back as I can remember, I have always had a great interest and even passion for motor racing. From the first day I got into a kart as a child, I understood it as my natural habitat! And from the moment I entered competition, I have only raced to win.
L'OH: You started karting at the age of 8. How does starting so young impact a racer's mental and physical development?
GR: Starting early is essential for a future Formula 1 driver. It’s a fiercely competitive sport. The numbers are against you, but resilience, self-belief and focus allow you to develop your mental and physical skills quickly, from a young age. And it’s also a unique sport in terms of the pace of life. Racing and finishing in championships throughout the year gives you valuable experience.
L'OH: Would you say today that reality lives up to your childhood dreams?
GR: Absolutely. Especially in recent years, when Formula 1 has experienced a phenomenal rise in popularity, with an unprecedented number of fans. Seeing these oceans of supporters present at every race on the official calendar is an incredible feeling. And then to find yourself competing alongside the greatest world champions, with such an inspiring Mercedes team, is something I have always dreamed of. However, winning the Formula 1 World Championship remains the ultimate dream, and I will continue to fight for the title.
L'OH: You are part of this new generation of successful riders, with Charles Leclerc or Max Verstappen. How do you explain this enthusiasm from the public?
GR: As I was saying, Formula 1 is an extremely inspiring sport, both on and off the track, through its performances and its lifestyle. The conditions of immersion, interaction and fan engagement with the teams and drivers make them extremely popular. This explains, in my opinion, the success that is revolving around it today.
OH: What’s it like to race alongside a legend like Lewis Hamilton ?
GR: It’s very special. As teammates, we’re fighting together to get the team back on pole position on the grid, and we’ve made great strides in that direction this year. As riders, each of us is consistently focused on being the best, every race. I think it’s fair to say that we’ve had some great results in the most recent ones. I hope to do even better in the next ones.
OH: What is the next personal challenge in your career?
GR: In Formula 1 more than in any other sport, if there is no challenge, then there is a problem. It is one of the most intense sports, by nature and by challenge. Everyone, teams and drivers alike, think of only one thing: winning the World Championship. And the competition is fierce. Therefore, and this is my opinion, the current challenge is to seek the opportunity to move up one place in each race, each weekend, at our own pace. It is far from obvious, but you don't get anything for nothing.
OH: How did you become a Tommy Hilfiger brand ambassador?
GR: Tommy himself is a huge Formula 1 fan, and he’s a legend in the paddock! His brand has been a partner of the Mercedes-AMG F1 team since 2019, and he has a knack for merging fashion and motorsport. I also like to put a twist on the classics, and we both immediately clicked when talking about it. I’m now part of the family, as he makes me feel, and my girlfriend Carmen also works alongside him.
L'OH: Tell us about your experience with the brand, what you like to wear?
GR: Almost every race weekend, I arrive dressed in Tommy Hilfiger. The paddock has become a very high-profile, high-profile place over time, and I love expressing my style there by wearing the latest pieces, with a soft spot for all those from the “Tommy X Mercedes-AMG F1 X Clarence Ruth” collection. Not to mention my two must-haves: classic chinos and rugby polo shirts.
L’OH: How would you define your style outside the paddocks?
GR: Contemporary, classic and timeless. Very Tommy Hilfiger!
Credits:
HAIR AND MAKEUP Kelly Mendiola
PHOTO ASSISTANT Cécile Guikas
STYLING ASSISTANT Maxence Velin
