– Away from the sporting action at the Monaco Grand Prix, a scene in the paddock caused numerous reactions on social media. George Russell helped Jack Wolff, the son of Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff and F1 Academy managing director Susie Wolff, collect autographs from current Formula 1 drivers on his trading cards.
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In a video released by Mercedes, Russell is seen taking the initiative and explaining: “We’re getting Jacky’s cards signed.” The Brit then sets off in search of as many drivers as possible.
Numerous drivers immortalize themselves on trading cards
Valtteri Bottas was the first to come by, but the right trading card for his signature was missing. Later, Russell and Jack Wolff managed to collect numerous signatures. Among others, Liam Lawson, Oscar Piastri, Lando Norris, Alex Albon, Ollie Bearman, Gabriel Bortoleto, Carlos Sainz, Charles Leclerc, Fernando Alonso, Lewis Hamilton, and Max Verstappen signed the cards.
The exchange between the drivers provided some humorous moments. For example, Russell joked to Jack Wolff: “Do you even want Lando’s signature? I certainly wouldn’t.”
Norris countered with a wink and asked, “Are you actually selling these cards and making money from them?” When Jack Wolff affirmed this, Norris, Piastri, and Russell laughed. Albon also joined in the fun, explaining as he signed: “I wrote my car number on it so it’s worth more.”
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Warm welcome from Hamilton
The encounter with Hamilton was particularly cordial. The seven-time world champion, who drove for Mercedes for twelve years, greeted young Wolff with the words: “How are you? Come here, give me a hug!”
The autograph hunt was positively received on social media. Many users praised Russell’s efforts in collecting the autographs and highlighted Hamilton’s friendly interaction with children. Others were amused by the playful dynamic between Russell and Norris.
Several fans commented that Russell seemed almost more engaged than Jack Wolff himself during the joint project. Others described the scene as one of the most likeable moments of the Monaco weekend.
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