Formula 1 explodes in controversy. After the Bahrain 2025 Grand Prix, the paddock has become a media battlefield. Mercedes has finally broken the silence after the explosive accusation of Lando Norris, who hinted that the German team used illegal tires to benefit George Russell. The reaction of the networks has not been waiting.
It all started with a post-carrier interview in whichLando Norris, visibly frustrated by not climbing the podium, he launched an indirect that went viral:
“Some cars seemed to have more grip than normal … maybe someone should check the tires.”
Although he did not mention names directly, the cameras pointed toGeorge Russell, who had had an unusually high performance in the last laps of the GP.
Norris’s words expanded as fire on social networks. In a matter of hours, hashtags like#RussellGate, #NorrisTruthy#MercedesTricksThey were global tendency.
After 48 hours of strategic silence,Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 TeamHe issued a blunt statement in which the accusations strongly denies:
“We are deeply disappointed by the insinuations made after the Bahréin GP. Mercedes has always competed within the FIA Regulation. Recent statements are not only incorrect, but also harmful for the integrity of sport.”
In addition, the team demanded an investigation by the FIA ”based on facts and not on rumors that damage the reputation of the teams and pilots involved.”
In a video posted on your Instagram account,George RussellHe was serene but firm:
“I have nothing to hide. I’ve always run clean. I am proud to represent Mercedes and regret that the approach is in unfounded controversies instead of sport itself.”
His words were received with a support wave, although also with divided criticism. Meanwhile, Lando Norris has not issued more public statements.
Fans of Formula 1 have turned to digital platforms. While some users demand sanctions against Mercedes, others accuse Norris of launching a “defamation campaign” to cover up their poor result.
InX (before Twitter), thousands of publications have flooded the Timeline:
- “Lando is right, something smells bad in that Mercedes. FIA, do their job.”
- “It is unfortunate that Norris acknowledges without evidence. Russell won in good fight.”
- “F1 needs more transparency. You can’t blindly be trusted on anyone.”
Even celebrities from the world of sports and former pilots likeJenson ButtonyDavid CoulthardThey have opined on the subject, asking for “calm” and “an objective investigation.”
FIA has announced thatwill review the case internally, although it has not confirmed a formal investigation. To find some technical infraction, Mercedes could face fines, loss of points or even suspensions.
For its part, the German team has reiterated thatwill fully collaborate with any technical audit, reaffirming that “transparency is part of its competitive DNA.”
This scandal arrives at a crucial moment, with just the first played race of the season. Yes okMercedes showed a great rhythm in Bahrain, this controversy cloud could affect its brand image and destabilize the team internally.
In addition, the relationship between Russell and Norris, two of the most promising British talents, seems to have suffered a strong break.
The atmosphere in Formula 1 is more loaded than ever. Among incendiary statements, official communications and a digital community in boiling, the “Russell – illegal tires” case promises to be one of the most commented episodes of the season. Are we facing a dirty campaign or a new real scandal in the paddock? Only time – and the FIA - will say it.
