Russell unwinds in monaco with vintage fiat 500 jolly
Amidst the high-stakes tension of Formula 1's return after the Australian and Chinese Grands Prix, a sense of calm has settled around Mercedes driver George Russell. While team rival Aston Martin searches for a new team principal, Russell has opted for a decidedly vintage way to spend his off-season, spotted cruising around Monaco in a Fiat 500 Jolly.
Mercedes’ rising star takes a break
Russell enters the week as the clear leader in the 2026 season, holding a commanding 51-point advantage over teammate Kimi Antonelli. The Mercedes team has been performing exceptionally well, particularly with a highly-touted engine that has propelled Russell to the front of the championship. This strong performance has allowed the team to remain largely untouched during this break, a stark contrast to the frantic activity at rival teams like Aston Martin.
The British driver, a Monaco resident, was seen enjoying the Principality's streets before heading to Japan. While one might expect to see him behind the wheel of a high-performance Sports car or a Mercedes prototype, Russell's choice of vehicle was a surprising nod to automotive history: a classic Fiat 500 Jolly.
The original Fiat 500 Jolly, launched in 1958, was a beach-oriented vehicle with a two-cylinder engine producing 22 horsepower and a top speed of 105 km/h. Later iterations added doors, and the version Russell drives retains the iconic open-top design with side curtains. This particular model, a black beauty, is a prized possession within the F1 garage scene, a testament to the drivers' deep passion for automobiles. Fellow driver Lando Norris previously owned the same car, although he later sold it at auction.
The Fiat 500 Jolly isn’t just a nostalgic indulgence; it reflects a broader trend among F1 drivers who appreciate classic cars. It’s a tangible link to a simpler era of motoring, a welcome respite from the technological complexities of modern racing. Russell’s choice speaks volumes about a driver who isn’t solely defined by his on-track performance. He's a man who appreciates the history and charm of the automotive world. His dominance this season, coupled with this unexpected hobby, paints a picture of a driver perfectly comfortable in his own skin.
The season is young, and the competition is fierce. But for now, George Russell is savoring his moment, a vintage icon under the Mediterranean sun. And in the world of Formula 1, that’s a luxury few can afford.