This shift in approach has not only enhanced his performance but also his overall enjoyment of the sport.
Mercedes' Competitive Edge
Mercedes has been showing an increasingly competitive edge as the season has progressed, despite a challenging start. Currently, the team holds the second position in the constructors’ championship with 326 points, leading third-placed Ferrari by a 28-point margin.
While Lewis Hamilton is leading the intra-team battle by holding third in the drivers’ standings, Russell has also been showcasing a "really, really strong" pace in recent races. His performance in the Qatar Grand Prix, where he finished in P4 after a first-lap tangle with Hamilton, is a testament to his improved form.
Russell's Change in Approach
In a conversation with Tom Clarkson on F1's Beyond The Grid podcast, Russell revealed the changes he has made since returning from the sport's traditional summer break in August. He emphasized his focus on enjoying the moment more, a philosophy inspired by Fernando Alonso.
Russell explained, "I listened to a podcast from Fernando, where he said that if he could change one thing in his career, he wishes he enjoyed the moment more often when he was younger." This resonated with Russell, who, despite living his dream, realized he was so dedicated that he often forgot to enjoy the moment.
The 25-year-old driver has now shifted his focus to enjoy life more, work effectively with his engineers, and concentrate on the right aspects of the car's setup. He also stressed the importance of not being "constantly this 120% serious guy focusing on every single detail."
Maintaining Professionalism
Despite this change in approach, Russell reassured fans that he remains as dedicated and professional as ever. He said, "It doesn't mean that I'm any less professional now, but it's just that I'm probably enjoying my life more, my surroundings, the people who I have at home, my living situation.”
Russell is currently in a much happier place, learning new things he never dreamt of doing before. He is currently in eighth place in the drivers’ championship with 132 points, just four points behind seventh-placed Lando Norris, with the final five rounds of the season ahead.
In conclusion, Russell's new approach, inspired by Alonso's philosophy, has not only improved his performance but also his enjoyment of the sport. His story serves as a reminder to all athletes about the importance of enjoying the journey while striving for success.
