Russell states that F1 fans would be 'displeased' with Raikkonen.
"I likely don’t reveal my true self to anyone."
Finnish newspapers are not particularly impressed with the recent comments made by Mercedes driver George Russell. In today’s social media-driven age, the 27-year-old Brit suggested that fans would be dissatisfied if modern drivers behaved off the track like the 2007 world champion Kimi Raikkonen. Russell acknowledges that he carefully shapes his public image.
"Honestly, I probably don’t show anyone who I truly am - because that’s also my safe space," he is quoted as stating by motorsport-total.com. "Everything you observe on social media, regardless of who it is, ultimately isn’t reality. Everyone is just trying to showcase the best version of themselves. If you take a hundred photos, you won’t post the one where your eyes are closed or you look foolish."
He admits that keeping his privacy is challenging as a Formula 1 driver, "because I also desire to be authentic." "Ultimately, the fans who watch Formula 1 and follow me are the ones who contribute to the sport's essence. That’s why sponsors invest money to be associated with the team - and that’s how I make my living. You can’t bite the hand that feeds you. You have to recognize that times are changing."
Consequently, Russell believes that today’s fans would not appreciate the public demeanor exemplified by a driver like Raikkonen. "Kimi Raikkonen was such an incredible personality," he remarked. "However, if he were to enter Formula 1 today as an 18-year-old, people would likely be upset if he didn’t use social media or came across as aloof. That’s the challenge we face today."
The Finnish newspaper Iltalehti characterized Russell's remarks as using "strong words" against Raikkonen, while Ilta Sanomat noted that the Mercedes driver had made "a significant" comment about the Finn’s character.
Other articles
Vote passes for the FIA chief's contentious changes.
Formula 1 | Despite objections from various FIA member clubs, the governing body of Formula 1 has approved a set of controversial amendments to the statutes. Many (…)
Mekies: Hadjar is 'always prepared' for a seat at Red Bull.
Formula 1 | Isack Hadjar is capable of advancing to Red Bull's senior team. This is the perspective of Laurent Mekies, the team manager at Racing Bulls, following (…)
Wheatley claims he isn't merely imitating Horner.
Formula 1 | According to a surprising assertion from Red Bull's former long-time sporting director, Audi-owned Sauber is already superior in certain aspects compared to Red Bull.
Verstappen is 'back in the game' in Canada.
Formula 1 | Red Bull has returned to the competition in Canada, according to optimistic comments from team advisor Dr. Helmut Marko. The 82-year-old had stated just a few days ago (…)
The leading candidate will not be the team principal of Alpine.
Formula 1 | A primary candidate has withdrawn from consideration for the position of full-time team principal at Alpine. Following Oliver Oakes' unexpected (...)
Imola's F1 cancellation is 'not the last decision'.
Formula 1 | Imola has been removed from the Formula 1 calendar – however, the legendary Italian circuit is not backing down. During Tuesday's gathering of the World Motor (…)
Russell states that F1 fans would be 'displeased' with Raikkonen.
Formula 1 | Finnish publications are unimpressed with recent remarks made by Mercedes driver George Russell. In this new era dominated by social media, the (…)