Mercedes has confirmed George Russell will forego media duties ahead of this weekend’s Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix due to ill health.
The Brit arrives in Baku fourth in the Drivers’ Championship, having failed to score points in only one of the 15 races contested so far this year.
And with Russell keen to stave off the challenge of Charles Leclerc, and hopeful of catching up to third-placed Max Verstappen, he has chosen to sit out Thursday’s obligations.
A post on Mercedes’ X account read: “Unfortunately, George won’t be at track today because he’s feeling unwell and resting up ahead of tomorrow’s track action.”
The German marque’s media duties will now solely be completed by Russell’s team-mate, Andrea Kimi Antonelli.
Russell’s new contract with Mercedes has yet to be formally confirmed, with recent confirmation from Team Principal Toto Wolff that he will remain with the squad next year.
The 27-year-old was the subject of rumour across the summer that he could be set to leave the team amid speculation that Verstappen was set to sign from rivals Red Bull.
However, Russell recently revealed that he would have stayed with the team regardless, and partnered Verstappen had the move taken place.
READ MORE – George Russell reveals why he was unconcerned by Max Verstappen to Mercedes talks
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