Illness-Neared Withdrawal George Russell Secures Second Azerbaijan GP Boosting Mercedes

George Russell nearly missed the 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix due to a severe respiratory infection, prompting Mercedes to prepare reserve driver Valtteri Bottas as a potential replacement. Despite feeling unwell and missing media duties, Russell recovered enough to qualify fifth and impressively finished second behind Max Verstappen, marking his seventh podium of the season. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff described Russell's participation as a "big push" and "touch and go," revealing that the driver's condition worsened overnight but he still managed a strong race performance. Russell acknowledged the physical toll and expressed relief upon seeing the chequered flag, emphasizing the race's significance for Mercedes as they aimed to surpass Ferrari in the constructors' championship. Additionally, teammate Kimi Antonelli contributed to Mercedes' strong weekend with a fourth-place finish, helping the team climb to second in the standings. The race also highlighted Carlos Sainz's impressive drive for Williams, securing their first podium in over four years and underscoring the team's progress this season.