Russell After Unsuccessful Season: 'My Confidence Hasn’t Been Dented Whatsoever'

Mercedes driver George Russell discussed the 2023 season and his team's car development progress ahead of 2024.

Mercedes F1 team finished the 2023 season second in the Constructors' Championship, separated by only 3 points from Ferrari in third place after a close battle in the last race of the season - the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

While the team improved on its Constructors' Championship position from 2022, Mercedes collected 106 points less in 2023. However, George Russell believes the team is in a better place now. He told the Telegraph:

Read also

Russell On Comparison With Hamilton: 'Going Up Against The Greatest Driver Of All Time'

Russell's teammate Lewis Hamilton recently told the media he was convinced Mercedes finally found its North Star and knows where to go. Russell shared a similar opinion:

Red Bull has a headstart in terms of development because it had the fastest car at the end of the season, and the team was also able to focus on next year's car quite earlier compared to others.

However, the 25-year-old suggested the gap that we might see at the beginning of 2024 will come down eventually. Russell shared his excitement:

While the 2023 season wasn't the best for the Mercedes driver, he says his confidence "hasn’t been dented whatsoever" as he looks forward to 2024.

Read also

Sainz Admits Ferrari Was Overall Quicker Than Mercedes, Just Less Consistent