Praise from Russell: 'That's a legacy to be proud of'

Many Formula One drivers have said they will miss Sebastian Vettel after the German announced his planned departure from the sport. This includes George Russell, who has nothing but praise for his experienced colleague.

Russell on Vettel's legacy

Russell believes the four-time world champion can be proud of what he has achieved, not only in the premier class of motorsport but also beyond. "We all want to win as many championships as possible, but nobody has anything bad to say about Seb in the paddock. I think that's a legacy I would be quite proud of," said the Mercedes driver in conversation with Marca.

In addition to the championships he won with Red Bull Racing, Vettel has endeared himself to the world in recent years through his efforts to improve it. For example, he taught schoolchildren in Austria about the importance of bees for nature conservation after the 2021 British Grand Prix. Russell also thinks that part of the German's legacy is something to be proud of. "He's probably prouder of that than his successes on the track," adds the 24-year-old Briton.

Following Vettel's announced departure, Fernando Alonso sent shockwaves through the F1 paddock by announcing that he would succeed the German at Aston Martin. The 41-year-old Spaniard decided to leave Alpine after the team refused to offer him a multi-year contract, something that Aston Martin is willing to do.