Silverstone 2009 convinced Russell "this is what I want to do"

George Russell has revealed his first trip to Silverstone for the 2009 British Grand Prix was enough to convince him that he wanted to become a Formula 1 driver.

Current Williams driver Russell was left bowled by the spectacle and atmosphere which cemented a career path in his mind.

“My first experience of Silverstone was in 2009," confirmed Russell. "I was stood on the outside of Copse at the start on the banking, and it was just such a buzz, such a thrill listening to the cars going through the corner."

At the time of the race, Britain could lay claim to reigning F1 champion Lewis Hamilton, and champion-in-waiting Jenson Button as he went on to take the title that year.

Likely to make Hamilton, Kimi Raikkonen and Sebastian Vettel feel old - given they all competed in the race - Russell was just 11-years-old in watching the latter claim his second win of the season from the stands.

Russell added: “I remember very strongly, I think it was a Red Bull leading a Brawn at the start, and that was probably the moment in my career where I thought this is what I want to do because this is pretty damn cool.

“That’s the moment that sticks out in my memory.”

Unfortunately for Russell, he will start Sunday's race from the back of the grid after incurring a five-place penalty for ignoring double-waved yellow flags during qualifying.

Before you go...

Racing Point puzzled by "overnight" pace loss

Hamilton motivated to win British GP for stuck-at-home fans

Related

F1 News & Gossip

F1 champion claims team may WRITE OFF Chinese GP sprint race

• April 18, 2024 12:57

Latest F1 News

Schumacher fires scary message at F1 team boss as worst fears CONFIRMED

• April 17, 2024 16:01
• 1