The Formula 1 driver George Russell has experienced a 2026 season marked by difficulties, but former driver Juan Pablo Montoya believes that these challenging moments will benefit him in the long run. Russell retired during the Belgian Grand Prix due to a collision with his teammate Lewis Hamilton on the first lap, which left him stuck in the gravel, in addition to an unexpected loss of electrical power at the start of the race.
His retirement has seriously affected his championship battle against his teammate Kimi Antonelli. While Russell was second in the standings, just 25 points behind Antonelli before the race, he now finds himself in third position, 50 points behind the Italian and five points behind Hamilton.
Montoya stated that what Russell is experiencing now is essential for his growth as a driver. “Being in this low moment is a very positive thing for him,” Montoya commented on the post-race program of F1 TV. “It may not seem so now, but in the long term, it will help him understand that he has to improve”.
Additionally, Montoya emphasized the importance of his team’s approach. “Mercedes is very good at helping and managing their drivers,” he added. “We never hear them blaming the drivers for a dozen reasons for not performing, which makes Russell an excellent fit for the team, as he thinks about the collective and improving”.
There is still one race left before the summer break, with the Hungarian Grand Prix taking place from July 24 to 26.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
