Russell calls F1’s new pre-race driver introduction an unwelcome distraction · RaceFans

George Russell did not enjoy the new pre-race driver introduction which Formula 1 held before the Miami Grand Prix.

All 20 drivers were required to take part in the pre-race ceremony on the grid in which each was introduced in turn by LL Cool J to an orchestra conducted by Will.i.am.

“We spoke about it as drivers on Friday night,” said Russell in response to a question from RaceFans. “Everybody’s got different personalities and I guess it’s the American way of doing sport.”

Russell, who is a director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, said the new ceremony is “personally, probably not for me.”

“But that’s my personal opinion. But I’m here to race, I’m not here for the show, I’m here to drive, I’m here to win. But I guess we have to roll with it.”

The FIA changed the sporting regulations ahead of the previous race, requiring drivers to join the grid 10 minutes earlier than usual. Russell said he found the change a distraction.

“It is distracting because we’re on the grid for half an hour in all of our overalls in the sun. And I don’t think there’s any other sport in the world that 30 minutes before you go out to do your do your business, that you’re out there in the sun, all the cameras on you and making a bit of a show of it.

“I appreciate that in the entertainment world, but as I said we only want the best for the sport. We’re open to changes, but I guess we wouldn’t want to see it every weekend.”

The FIA has indicated the new introductions will only be used at certain events.

“I don’t think it will be every weekend, I think it’ll be at the big races,” said Russell. “I’m not too sure, to be honest.

“I mean, the thing I love every single race is the national anthem, that sort of pumps and it’s sort of respectful to the country that we’re racing at. But I’ve mixed feelings on the additional show.”