George Russell discusses lasting impact of 2020 Mercedes F1 call-up
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 15, 2026, 8:20 AM
Last updated Aug 15, 2026
Mercedes Formula 1 driver George Russell shared in an interview that he still has scars from his experience at the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix. Called up to replace Lewis Hamilton, who tested positive for COVID-19, Russell squeezed into Hamilton's seat, affecting him both physically and mentally. This call-up marked a significant moment in Russell's career, transitioning him from Williams to a prominent team. Russell reflects on the challenges he faced during that race and how it shaped his subsequent performance in the sport.
- •Russell still carries physical scars from the Sakhir Grand Prix.
- •He replaced Lewis Hamilton after Hamilton tested positive for COVID-19.
- •Russell's experience came while driving for Williams before joining Mercedes.
- •His call-up was a pivotal moment in his racing career.
- •He reflects on the challenges that impacted his performance.
- 8:20 AMMotorsport.com — George Russell still carries scars from 2020 Mercedes F1 call-up
- 8:20 AMYahoo Sports — George Russell still carries scars from 2020 Mercedes F1 call-up
"Mercedes Formula 1 driver George Russell has revealed he still carries scars on his hips from squeezing into seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton's race seat during his appearance for the Brackley outfit at the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix. Russell, who was driving for Williams at the time, was called up to Mercedes for the penultimate race of 2020 after Hamilton tested positive for ...Keep reading
"George Russell has revealed he still carries scars from squeezing into Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes race seat for the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix
Sources
External links- Motorsport.comAug 15, 2026, 8:20 AMGeorge Russell still carries scars from 2020 Mercedes F1 call-up
Mercedes Formula 1 driver George Russell has revealed he still carries scars on his hips from squeezing into seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton's race seat during his appearance for the Brackley outfit at the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix. Russell, who was driving for Williams at the time, was called up to Mercedes for the penultimate race of 2020 after Hamilton tested positive for ...Keep reading
- Yahoo SportsAug 15, 2026, 8:20 AMGeorge Russell still carries scars from 2020 Mercedes F1 call-up
George Russell has revealed he still carries scars from squeezing into Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes race seat for the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix
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