George Russell, trade unionist in spite of himself: at the heart of the tug-of-war between the FIA and the drivers
Engaged without really intending to be, George Russell now finds himself at the center of an unexpected political confrontation between F1 drivers and the FIA. An increasingly strategic role in a fast-growing discipline.
Since 2021, George Russell has been wearing two hats. As a Mercedes driver on the track, he is also the director of the GPDA (Grand Prix Drivers’ Association), the F1 drivers’ union. Although this role initially seemed more symbolic than political, recent conflicts with the FIA have changed the situation. And the Englishman does not hide that this responsibility has become much more demanding than he would have imagined.
“I hadn’t planned to be so politically involved with the FIA,” he confides. “It was supposed to be a collaborative affair. Today, it is much less so.”
A tense climate with the FIA
One of the major points of contention has been the highly controversial “fluchverbot,” the ban preventing drivers from speaking freely on certain causes or political opinions. This tense climate between Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the FIA, and the drivers has compelled Russell to speak out more.
« These past 18 months have been much busier than expected. Some developments have been very surprising, even for me. »
However, Russell does not intend to shy away from this now burdensome mission. On the contrary, he sees it as a duty, in a sport more popular than ever.
« We are riding an incredible wave, but we must not take anything for granted. One misstep, and everything can collapse, like a Jenga tower.
A close-knit group… and sometimes very funny
Despite the tensions with the institution, Russell is delighted with the cohesion among drivers. It is particularly evident in the famous WhatsApp conversation of GPDA members, sometimes serious… but not always.
« It’s a mix! Once it starts, the messages fly. Imagine Messi and Ronaldo sending each other memes… It’s a bit like that! »
This bond, almost fraternal, between current drivers is rare in high-level sport. And Russell is one of its guarantors.
« Some relationships are stronger than others, of course, but we form a unique group. »
A union more crucial than ever
As F1 enjoys unprecedented global popularity, the stakes are high: maintaining unity among drivers, defending their freedom of speech, and preserving the stability of the sport.
And even if this role was not the one he had initially envisioned, George Russell is making the best of it. Better yet: he fully embraces it.
