5 things to know about George Russell, Formula 1’s first winner of 2026

George Russell and Mercedes won the 2026 Formula 1 season opener at the Australian Grand Prix on March 8, 2026, marking the first victory of the new season. The result elevated Russell to early championship favourite status. Russell, who began karting at age seven, has previously competed against fellow F1 drivers including Charles Leclerc and Alexander Albon during his junior career.