George Russell Opens Up on FIA ‘Fight’, Hails Rui Marques

Mercedes Formula 1 driver George Russell has called for closer collaboration between the FIA, Formula 1, and the drivers, following a year of strained relations.



The tension peaked in 2024 after the FIA introduced a swearing ban, prompting the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA) — effectively a trade union for drivers — to publish an open letter urging the governing body to treat them as adults.



Russell, who has been a GPDA director since 2021, told Motorsport.com that his goal is to work constructively with all parties.



“We don’t want to fight against the FIA. We don’t want to fight against F1,” he said.



“You want to work together with them, to get the most for them as a sport, the most for them as a regulatory body, and then the most for us as drivers. You want to rise together and fall together.”



Positive Changes Under New Leadership



Russell praised race director Rui Marques and FIA sporting director Tim Malyon for being more open and responsive to driver concerns.



“It’s been very refreshing having Rui Marques on board,” he said.



“They listen and they react, and I think collectively, we’re all substantially happier now with where we are.”



Commitment to Safety Advocacy



Beyond governance matters, Russell has remained a vocal advocate for driver safety.



He criticised suggestions to race at the Belgian Grand Prix in poor visibility, calling it “stupidity” and stressing the importance of avoiding unnecessary risks.



Russell’s dedication to safety stems from personal experiences.



“In 2012 I was team-mates with Billy Monger… seeing that crash live, and then watching Anthoine Hubert’s crash… it was sickening to watch,” he said.



“When you experience things like this with people who you know so well, and you believe you have ideas that can help improve the safety… then you naturally want to share it.”



Focus on Improvements Over Legacy



Russell insists his involvement in the GPDA is not about personal recognition.



“I’m not chasing to leave any legacy,” he said.



“It’s just that if I see an opportunity to improve something, I want to speak about it, especially if it comes to track safety or car safety.”



For Russell, safety improvements and open communication with the FIA remain the priorities, as he looks to help shape a safer and more collaborative future in Formula 1.
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