Leaked radio message reveals Russell’s panic after accident in Australia

March 24, 2024 12:48

An unprecedented recording from the Mercedes team radio during the Formula 1 Australian GP exposed the panic that George Russell felt when left in the middle of the track, after his crash at the end of the race.

The Mercedes driver was chasing Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso for sixth place in the final laps of the race, and had come within a second of his rival on the penultimate lap. However, upon entering turn six, Alonso unexpectedly slowed down, which scared Russell, who lost control and crashed hard into the protective barrier. With the impact, the W15 suffered extensive damage, rolled and stopped in the middle of the track, with cars quickly approaching.

The recording of the radio message, which was not broadcast live during the race, reveals Russell’s anguish at finding himself in a dangerous position.

The Brit, who is also director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), shouted: “Red flag! Red flag! Red flag! I’m in the middle of the track! Red flag! Red flag! Red! Red! Red! Red! Red! I’m in the middle! Red! Holy crap!”

Despite Russell’s pleas, the race management decided to end the race with the Virtual Safety Car on the last lap, while the medical car was sent to rescue him from the accident site, from where he left without any major problems.

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