Russell takes inspiration from several drivers: 'I even look at Jenson Button'

Formula One drivers need to understand many things in order to rise to the top. George Russell has looked to many drivers during his career for inspiration.

There is a lot that goes into a Formula One race. From tyre management and dealing with changing conditions to fighting to the limit for your place on the track. Sergio Perez, for example, is seen as a strong tyre manager, Lewis Hamilton is the rain master and Max Verstappen is one of the best when it comes to defending and overtaking.

George Russell has made no secret of his desire to become world champion and one of the best drivers in the sport and the Briton has taken a close look at successful drivers. Not only legends like Michael Schumacher, but also drivers of recent years. "I always looked at the best aspects of each driver and tried to copy that," he told The Sportsman.

Qualities on and off the track

"I look at the sheer speed of Lewis Hamilton and what he does on the track, someone like Fernando Alonso who knows how to get the most out of any situation and Juan Pablo Montoya who is very aggressive." 

But it's not just racing qualities that the Williams driver draws inspiration from. "Even off the track, everyone loved Jenson Button and the way he handled the media. He was a fan favourite!" The Briton can now learn first-hand exactly how Button did that, thanks to his new role as an advisor at Williams.