George Russell

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

Sam Hall Sunday 2 August 2020 11:30

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.

11-year-old Russell is pictured somewhere in the 'Copse' 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.

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

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