George Russell was in a comical mood after the Italian Grand Prix last weekend, where he joked about Ferrari’s special livery for their home race.
In celebration of the Italian manufacturer’s victory at the Le Mans 24 Hours back in June, Ferrari used a special red, black and yellow livery at Monza last weekend.
It wasn’t just the SF-23 which boasted a new look, as Charles Leclerc’s and Carlos Sainz’s suits were also redesigned for the event.
The special livery looked great and appeared to be the team’s good luck charm, as Sainz claimed pole position at the ‘Temple of Speed’.
Want to work in Formula 1? Browse the latest F1 job vacancies
Despite his best efforts, he tumbled to third during the race after being overtaken by reigning World Champion Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez.
He put up an incredible defensive display against both Red Bull drivers, but his poor tyre wear impacted his ability to keep the faster drivers behind.
However, the 29-year-old did hold on for third, after also defending superbly against Leclerc who finished fourth.
Sainz’s name was chanted by the Tifosi on the famous Monza podium, which overlooks the start/finish straight.
Russell finished behind the two Ferrari drivers in fifth, after falling one place from where he started.
Despite being disappointed with the performance of the W14, he was at least able to make a joke directed at Leclerc.
Leclerc walked past the Mercedes driver whilst the ex-Williams star was giving an interview, to which Russell said: “I thought that was a McDonald’s employee.”
The 25-year-old actually received some backlash on social media for the comment, although most saw the funny side of what he said.
“It’s so funny how much hate he got for this, i swear the f1 community is full of snowflakes,” commented nawafjs_.
READ: Christian Horner reveals huge change at AlphaTauri
“McDonalds Employees smashed him this week,” joked ayrtonazz.
Given how well they performed, Ferrari might want to keep their special livery for next weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix, where they’ll return to their traditional design.
Russell will be hoping to bounce back at the Marina Bay Circuit and finished ahead of both Leclerc and Sainz, who he’s behind in the Drivers’ Championship.