Lando Norris baffled that ‘everyone is complaining’ about George Russell’s form at Mercedes

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Lando Norris has questioned why ‘everyone is complaining’ about George Russell’s performances at Mercedes.

Heading into the 2026 Formula 1 season, many people predicted that Russell would win the world championship due to the Silver Arrows’ package and his experience. 

The Brit produced a statement of intent in Melbourne as he dominated to win the Australian Grand Prix, kicking his season off in the best way possible.

However, Russell then saw his teenage teammate, Kimi Antonelli, win five races in a row in China, Japan, Miami, Canada and Monaco. 

Antonelli’s winning run was halted by Lewis Hamilton in Barcelona before Russell won the Austrian Grand Prix last time out.

As things stand, there are currently 40 points separating the two Mercedes drivers, with the world title fight set to go down to the wire again. 

Let’s hear your podium predictions for the British Grand Prix 🍾

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Lando Norris believes George Russell is ‘easily fast enough’

Speaking ahead of this weekend’s British Grand Prix, reigning world champion Norris was asked whether Russell is feeling the ‘burden’. 

In response, Norris questioned why ‘everyone is complaining’ despite Russell’s victory last weekend.

He went on to say that his fellow Brit has not been ‘the most fortunate’ driver this year, having been hit with technical issues and untimely safety cars.

Norris went on to say that Russell ‘will be fine’ as he has already overcome some ‘good challenges’ so far in 2026.

Sky Sports F1 reporter Craig Slater asked Norris: “Is he feeling the burden? If you’re a British racer and you’re in that position, even like the footballers at the moment, there is a burden of pressure on him. You understand what that’s like?” 

Norris replied: “Yeah, but so does George. I mean, he won last weekend, so I don’t know why everyone is complaining. He’s doing a good job.

“You know, he’s not been the most fortunate guy this season, neither have I, but that’s racing sometimes. I think he’s overcome some good challenges so far. 

“So, he’s capable of it; he’s easily quick enough. Of course, there are moments when it’s hard to adapt to new cars and new tracks and things like this. And then Kimi is always doing a good job.

“You have some of the best drivers in the world fighting for this world championship. Of course, at the minute, we are probably a little bit out of it, but we’re trying our best to stay in it for as long as possible.

“So yeah, I’m happy for him (Russell) and he will be fine.”

READ MORE: British Grand Prix predictions as F1 experts name the winner and the top Brit at Silverstone

Aside from Russell, Norris has also been hit with bad luck this season as his title defence started horribly.

The McLaren star was unable to take part in the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai after a suspected electrical fault.

He then suffered battery issues in Japan before being forced to retire in Canada and Monaco. 

The 26-year-old produced an impressive display to come home third in Barcelona before finishing seventh at last weekend’s Austrian Grand Prix.

Currently, Norris sits fifth in the world championship standings with 79 points, 92 points adrift of leader Antonelli.