[Saba Sports News] Mercedes driver Andrea Antonelli had his civilian driver’s license revoked earlier after a speeding accident. During the recent pre-season testing in Bahrain, his teammate George Russell presented him with a rather special gift—a playful metal keychain. It was specifically inscribed with “For F1 track use only, not for public roads,” carrying a lighthearted joke. Antonelli accepted the gift with a big laugh. Later during testing, Antonelli accidentally ran over a kerb, making the car bounce slightly. Russell immediately teased him over the team radio, warning him to be careful while joking: “You’ve already lost your license. If you crash again, you’ll have to walk home.” It was clear the two get along extremely well.
Their relationship perfectly embodies the rare bond between teammates and close friends in Formula 1. On the track, they are partners fighting side by side, fully committed to the team’s common goals, trusting and supporting each other. Off the track, they let go of the tension of competition, becoming good friends who can banter and joke freely with no awkwardness or distance—relaxed and genuine with one another.