Russell's Congratulations to Antonelli and Social Media Statement

Mercedes driver George Russell made a statement on social media after he did not speak to the media following the Mexico City Grand Prix. Teammate Kimi Antonelli won the Formula 1 World Championship with Sunday's race.

On Instagram, Russell wrote that now was an appropriate moment to "speak from the heart." He said the season had started the way he wanted, but it soon fell apart due to bad luck and weak performances. He described his first full season in his career as having more bad days than good ones.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff said Russell was in a bad way in Mexico and went home after congratulating Antonelli. The FIA fined Mercedes 5,000 euros because Russell did not attend the mandatory post-race media duties.

At 20 years old, Antonelli became the youngest Formula 1 world champion in the sport's history. Unlike Antonelli, who won nine races this season, Russell won three and dropped to fourth place in the drivers' standings. Russell said a power unit problem on the first lap in Mexico City left him with insufficient power.

Russell congratulated Antonelli and thanked the team. He said he will work with all his strength to regain the level of performance he showed for most of his career in the remaining races and next season.