George Russell Demands 'Entire Change' for Mexico City GP Corner After Penalty Controversy

George Russell is calling for a significant overhaul of the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez's Turn 2 and 3 complex after a contentious start to the Mexico City Grand Prix, where rivals Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton escaped penalties despite cutting the track.

Why it matters:

Russell's demand highlights a broader issue in Formula 1 regarding track limits, consistent penalty application, and circuit design. Unresolved, these issues can lead to driver frustration, perceived unfairness, and compromise the integrity of on-track battles. Ensuring fair play and safety is paramount for the sport's credibility.

The details:

• Penalty Frustration: Russell was "very, very surprised" that Verstappen and Hamilton, after "lawnmower racing" through Turns 1-3, received no penalties despite cutting the track. This contrasted sharply with stricter enforcement at other circuits, like Monza, where missing a chicane incurs significant time loss.
• Circuit Design Critique: Russell criticized the Turn 2 and 3 section, stating, "I personally don't like that corner at all. I don't think it's good for racing." He noted that the single racing line from Turn 2 to Turn 3 prevents continuous side-by-side battling, unlike circuits such as Bahrain where drivers can fight through multiple corners.
• Proposed Solution: Russell believes the only effective solution is to "change entirely" the corner complex to prevent drivers from gaining an advantage by leaving the track. He suggested that, without a redesign, the alternative of gravelling the entire section would be necessary.
• Safety Concerns: Russell also commented on the frightening incident involving Liam Lawson and two marshals on track. While understanding that the FIA exonerated Lawson, he emphasized that drivers, despite managing numerous in-cockpit tasks, "never expect to see someone on track," highlighting a critical safety lapse that the FIA must address with the circuit organizers.

The big picture:

The Mexico City GP incident is part of an ongoing debate in F1 about track limits and the consistency of stewards' decisions. Drivers frequently voice concerns over how track limit infringements are judged, especially when it impacts race outcomes. Russell's specific critique of the circuit design points to how track layouts can inadvertently create these controversial situations, pushing the FIA to re-evaluate sections of tracks that frequently cause issues.

What's next:

Russell's comments, made ahead of the São Paulo Grand Prix, will likely fuel further discussions within the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA) and with the FIA. While immediate changes to the Mexico City track are unlikely for the upcoming season, such strong feedback from a prominent driver could prompt a review of the circuit design and penalty guidelines for future F1 calendars, aiming for greater consistency and safety across all venues.