© Steve Etherington for Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd.
George Russell says the ‘tap’ he gave Valtteri Bottas‘ helmet after their crash cannot be called a ‘slap’, and he doubts the Finn even felt it.
After his crash with Valtteri Bottas, George Russell walked over to the Finn’s car to voice his displeasure with what just happened. He was greeted by a one-finger salute from Bottas, and then he ‘tapped’ his helmet, before storming off.
Many have said afterwards that putting your hands on another driver while he is still sitting in the car after a huge crash, in any way other than to help him, is unacceptable. After the race Russell said what he did cannot be considered ‘a slap’.
“Slap is a very strong word. It was nothing more than a brush,” Russell told ESPN.
“I doubt he even felt it. It was more of a ‘what are you doing?’
“I’m sure maybe a footballer would have reacted in a very different way but there was nothing menacing there, almost as if you’re throwing your arms in the air.”
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Ultimately, George issued a public apology to Valtteri for his actions. Bottas on the other hand has said that he doesn’t hold a grudge, as he barely even knows George Russell.
“I’ve never really worked that closely with him, but obviously he’s been around for some time because he’s been the reserve driver and done some testing for the team,” the Finn explained.
“I know him a little bit, but there have never been any issues. In terms of this one, obviously I was not happy with how it ended up.
“But I’m an easygoing guy, so there are no problems. But I can’t say I’m friends with him, like I can’t say I’m friends with most or any of the drivers really.
“From my side, no issues but today was not ideal because he made me lose a good chunk of points potentially today and it was his mistake,” concluded Bottas.
