George Russell Criticises “Mega Dangerous” Ferrari Defence
1. Race Context
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Mercedes dominated the season opener in Melbourne, with:
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George Russell: Race winner
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Kimi Antonelli: 2nd → Mercedes 1-2
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Charles Leclerc: 3rd
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Lewis Hamilton: 4th
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Ferrari had strong starts:
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Leclerc moved from P4 → P1 at Turn 1
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Hamilton climbed from P7 → P3 on Lap 1
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Ferrari failed to pit during early VSCs for retired Hadjar and Bottas, giving the lead back to Mercedes.
2. Untelevised Team Radio Insights
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On Lap 28, Russell was closing on Hamilton after his pit stop.
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Hamilton defended aggressively on the high-speed approach to Turn 9, blocking Russell on the inside.
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Russell reported over team radio:
“So much movement in the straight when these guys are defending. It’s mega dangerous.”
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Earlier, he had also criticised Leclerc’s defensive driving in the opening laps:
“That was very dangerous by Leclerc, especially [after] what we spoke about in the briefing.”
3. Straight-Line Mode Concerns
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Russell highlighted safety issues with the new F1 2026 straight-line mode:
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Deploying active aero caused excessive understeer, feeling like his front wing wasn’t working.
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When trying to slipstream Leclerc, he struggled to control the car.
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He suggested to the FIA:
“With the straight mode, the front wing doesn’t drop as aggressively… That would make the racing safer, better. I don’t see a downside of doing it.”
4. Key Takeaways
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Russell’s criticism focuses on safety and car control in the new rules era.
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Both Hamilton and Leclerc’s defensive moves on straights were deemed “mega dangerous.”
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The straight-line active aero system may require adjustments to ensure driver safety and reduce understeer.