Mercedes announce team ‘switch’ for F1 star Russell following…read more
Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 Team has recently hinted at a playful “team switch” for their driver, George Russell, through a series of engaging social media posts. This lighthearted tease coincides with significant developments within the team, including a new partnership with Adidas and the departure of long-time driver Lewis Hamilton.
Adidas Partnership and New Team Kit
In a strategic move, Mercedes has entered into a multi-year partnership with Adidas, replacing their previous apparel supplier, Puma. This collaboration marks Adidas’s inaugural venture into Formula 1 teamwear, aiming to blend performance with style. The newly designed team kit features Mercedes’ signature turquoise hue alongside Adidas’s iconic three-stripe design, symbolizing the fusion of both brands’ identities.
George Russell and his new teammate, 18-year-old Italian rookie Kimi Antonelli, unveiled the 2025 collection, showcasing the performance-focused apparel that will be donned by drivers, engineers, and mechanics throughout the season. A fanwear collection is also available, allowing supporters to engage with the team’s fresh aesthetic.
George Russell’s Real Madrid Connection
Amidst the excitement of the new partnership, George Russell shared a personal anecdote that delighted fans. He posted childhood photos, including one featuring a Real Madrid birthday cake, highlighting his long-standing admiration for the football club. Recently, Russell had the opportunity to visit Real Madrid’s home stadium, the Santiago Bernabéu, where he met with club president Florentino Pérez and ambassador Roberto Carlos. During this visit, he received a custom Real Madrid jersey and posed alongside star player Jude Bellingham, both holding a ‘Russell’ shirt emblazoned with his racing number, 63.
Mercedes amplified this moment by sharing the image on their Instagram stories with the playful caption: “George to Real Madrid, here we go,” suggesting a humorous “team switch” for their F1 star. This light-hearted jest resonated with fans, showcasing the team’s camaraderie and Russell’s multifaceted sports enthusiasm.
Leadership Transition Within Mercedes
The 2025 season marks a significant transition for Mercedes. With Lewis Hamilton’s departure to Ferrari after a 12-year tenure and six drivers’ titles with the team, George Russell is poised to take on a leadership role. Russell, 26, has secured three race wins in his career and is expected to lead the team forward as Antonelli integrates into Formula 1. Reflecting on this new chapter, Russell expressed his readiness to embrace the leadership mantle, viewing it as a maturation point in his racing journey.
Adidas’s Foray into Formula 1
Adidas’s partnership with Mercedes signifies its first foray into Formula 1, aiming to bring a fresh perspective to motorsport apparel. The collaboration seeks to merge Adidas’s expertise in performance technology with Mercedes’ pursuit of racing excellence. Bianca Mast, Product Lead at Adidas, emphasized the brand’s dedication to supporting the team’s performance while offering fans stylish and functional merchandise.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 season approaches, Mercedes, under the leadership of Team Principal Toto Wolff, is focused on innovation and performance. The partnership with Adidas is seen as a “groundbreaking collaboration” that will redefine the team’s apparel and strengthen its brand presence. Wolff highlighted that this alliance is a clear statement of intent as Mercedes embarks on its next chapter, aiming to blend peak performance with style and sophistication.
The playful “team switch” tease involving George Russell and Real Madrid underscores the dynamic and engaging culture within Mercedes. As Russell steps into his leadership role and the team embraces new partnerships, Mercedes fans have much to anticipate in the upcoming season.
