George Russell admitted it was a “strange feeling” to be back driving for Mercedes in Formula 1 post-season testing ahead of racing for the team next year.
Following the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Russell drove on both days at the Yas Marina Circuit for his new employers, driving a 2019 Mercedes W10 fitted with Pirelli’s new 18-inch tyres.
Russell last appeared in Mercedes colours during his one-off appearance at the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix, when a tyre mix-up and late puncture cost him a potential maiden career victory.
Mercedes announced in September that Russell would replace Alfa Romeo-bound Valtteri Bottas for the 2022 season, ending a three-year stint at Williams.
Speaking after the first day of testing, Russell said: “It’s a strange feeling, because I’ve tested with the team numerous times after races, end of season, and here we are again.
“But obviously it’s my first time as an official driver for the team. It was a really great day to be back with the guys, and learning about the new tyres.
“It’s always a pleasant experience driving a world championship-winning car, the 2019 Mercedes, and with these 18-inch Pirellis, which seem to be reacting pretty positively. It was a nice day.”
Most of the teams were running their mule cars over the test, which had been modified to accommodate the new tyres that will debut as part of the major regulations changes next year.
Having sampled the 18-inch tyres for the first time, Russell expects them to be a different challenge compared to Pirelli’s previous construction.
“It felt pretty nice to drive, to be honest,” Russell said.
“It’s going to be very different next year, as the cars are going to be drastically changed compared to these current cars. So there’s not an awful lot you can take away from it.
“Nevertheless, they do react pretty differently to the 13-inch tyres that we’ve raced on previously.
“Let’s hope that carries through to next year and see how they react with the new regulations.”
Russell joked that he was “battered and bruised” after his run in the two-year old Mercedes, having previously struggled to fit in Lewis Hamilton’s cockpit when he replaced the seven-time world champion last year.
“It’s pretty damn tight in that car, but next year will be much better and I’ll have a bit more room to breathe,” Russell said.
“I’m looking forward to that. But you suck it up, get on with it, and I’ve got all of Christmas to recover.”
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