George Russell asks for an ‘open conversation’ with Just Stop Oil protesters who are ready for another ‘stupid and reckless’ track invasion at the British GP
Michael Gray
Updated on April 01, 2026
To prevent potentially dangerous track invasions at the British GP this weekend, British driver George Russell has called for open conversations with the Just Stop Oil protesters ahead of the British Grand Prix. As the director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association and a representative of the Formula 1 community, Russell aims to address concerns and find common ground.
George Russell expressed his trust and faith in Formula 1 and Silverstone, emphasizing the efforts to ensure safety on the track. “We’re all open and free to cast our views, but doing it on a live F1 track is pretty irresponsible and it shouldn’t be dangerous,” he cautioned. “Even open conversations with us before recklessly running onto a circuit when we’re driving past at 200mph,” the Brit added.
While his Mercedes teammate, Lewis Hamilton has shown support for peaceful protests and welcomed activists, fellow British driver Lando Norris has taken a different stance. Norris believes track invasions are “stupid and selfish,” urging the protesters to stay away from Silverstone. He emphasized the potential risks to lives and highlighted the need for alternative forms of protest.
George Russell urges the Just Stop Oil group to look at what F1 has in plans
The Just Stop Oil campaign, formed in 2022 by environmental activists, attempts to persuade the British government to prohibit new fossil fuel licensing and production. This year, the club has set its sights on big athletic events in the Kingsland. However, George Russell invites these demonstrators to consider Formula 1’s sustainability objectives before engaging in dangerous behavior. The sport has made significant environmental commitments, vowing to attain net zero carbon emissions by 2030.
Russell highlights Formula One’s effort for sustainable fuels, such as using 10% ethyl alcohol in its engines, which will convert to completely sustainable fuels by 2026. He asks campaigners to have open discussions with drivers, asking them to grasp the enormous measures being taken toward a cleaner future.
George Russell has said he would like to have "open conversations" with protesters before they think about a "reckless" track invasion.
Russell, who is also the director of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association, said: "We put our trust and faith in F1 and Silverstone.
"I think…
— Fastest Pitstop (@FastestPitStop) July 7, 2023
In line with Russell’s call for dialogue, he encourages the protesters to examine Formula 1’s commitment to sustainability. He highlights the sport’s ambition to achieve 100% sustainable fuels. Russell emphasized, “we’re going to 100% sustainable fuels in the future, we’re doing a huge push on the sustainability front and I think it would only be fair for them to have a look and see what we’re doing.”
As the British Grand Prix approaches, there is still concern about track invasions. George Russell’s open communication idea is a proactive strategy to avoid irresponsibility and safeguard the safety of all those concerned. Mercedes is presently second in the standings, far behind Red Bull. George will look to rebound from Austria with a stronger home grand prix.
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