Russell reacts jokingly to Vowles switch: "James, this is George"

James Vowles caused a shock on Friday when he announced his departure from Mercedes. George Russell can only rejoice for his former chief strategist and opts for a sharp joke when congratulating the Brit.

It was perhaps the most surprising move since the silly season of Formula 1 team bosses erupted: Vowles is leaving Mercedes behind and moving to Williams to work as team boss. He takes over from Jost Capito, who left a month earlier after leading the team for two years.

Vowles gained fame among the general public with the message 'Valtteri, it's James', which continued to haunt Valtteri Bottas during his time as Lewis Hamilton's teammate. His replacement, Russell, has not forgotten that either and hooks up to it when congratulating the German racing stable's former chief strategist.

"James, it’s George. Congratulations on your new role, thoroughly deserved. Thank you for everything you’ve done for Mercedes and the support you’ve given me along the journey. See you in Bahrain!" reads Russell's message to the new team boss of Williams, where the driver left after the 2021 F1 season.