George Russell reflects on 2024 Belgian GP disqualification ahead of 2026 race

George Russell has opened up about his disqualification from the 2024 Belgian Grand Prix, where he initially secured a victory before being stripped of the win due to his Mercedes car being underweight. The British driver reflected on the race ahead of the 2026 Belgian Grand Prix, stating that he doesn't feel the track owes him anything despite the setback.

What happened in the 2024 Belgian Grand Prix?

George Russell delivered a masterful performance at the 2024 Belgian Grand Prix, executing a flawless one-stop strategy with old tires to hold off his teammate Lewis Hamilton, who was on fresher rubber. The victory would have been Russell's third career win and a significant moment for Mercedes as their form began to improve during the 2024 season. However, post-race inspections revealed that Russell's car was underweight, leading to his disqualification and handing the win to Hamilton, who secured his 105th career victory and final win as a Mercedes driver.

Why was George Russell disqualified?

The disqualification stemmed from a technical issue where Russell's Mercedes was found to be underweight after the race. The car had not been fully drained of fuel when initially weighed by FIA technical delegates, resulting in the penalty. Despite the setback, Russell remains fond of the race, noting that it is one he will remember vividly, even more so because of the disqualification.

How does Russell feel about returning to Spa-Francorchamps?

Russell has stated that he does not feel the track owes him anything, despite the disappointment of losing the victory. He shared his thoughts on the Silver Arrows Radio Show, emphasizing that the race is still a memorable one for him. Russell also acknowledged the challenges of the 2026 Belgian Grand Prix, including energy management and the track's inherent difficulties. He expressed his love for Spa-Francorchamps but noted that it will be a tough race this year.

What's next for George Russell?

As the 2026 Formula 1 season progresses, George Russell will look to build on his experiences and continue to perform at a high level. The Belgian Grand Prix will be a key event, and Russell's ability to manage the challenges of the track will be crucial. With Mercedes aiming to maintain their competitive edge, Russell's performance will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.