George Russell treats Mercedes F1 Team members to Silverstone karting day

Over 1,000 from Mercedes’ Brackley and Brixworth bases applied to take part, however there were limited spots available to race alongside Russell.

On what was a day of mixed conditions on track, all 170 team members had a chance to head out on the world-class Kart Silverstone surface.

With Russell taking part in some races and overseeing others, even waving a checkered flag for a few to kickstart some mini Grands Prix, it was a memorable experience for all involved.

In a video posted to Mercedes’ social media channels, Russell can be seen having a laugh and a joke with those participating before he suited up and got in a kart himself.

“If in doubt, flat out,” Russell said before taking no prisoners whatsoever in his #1 kart, finding the smallest of gaps between fellow karters to force his way through to the front.

Once Russell got out, the rain began to take hold and he had an excellent time watching Silver Arrows team members drifting around turn one.

Some weren’t quite as successful with their attempts in battling the conditions, spinning and bringing out yellow flags, amusing Russell as he exclaimed, “This is carnage!”.

This isn’t the first time Russell has taken to Kart Silverstone, as the F1 championship contender officially opened the circuit alongside Sky Sports presenter David Croft earlier this year.

This newspaper attended that particular event, with much learnt about the circuit’s five different configurations, 55mph top speed and succession of flowing corners.

Before that, Russell was also asked to test out the track before it officially opened, and as was McLaren’s Lando Norris.

Circuit designer Jarno Zaffelli was keen to recruit F1 drivers and professional karters for their opinions, resulting in what is now one of the best karting facilities in the UK.

You can find out more about Kart Silverstone via their website: https://www.kart.silverstone.co.uk/