THE MADNESS OF WRITING OFF KING GEORGE

Russell's ready to show the snipers he can handle heat in title scrap

- BY DANIEL MOXON

NOT even a wheel has yet turned under racing conditions and already some people are trying to downplay title favourite George Russell's chances.

He's the preseason favourite, with Mercedes widely tipped to have the best engines as the new campaign gets going.

Some are questioning whether gentle George has the killer instinct needed to become a Formula One world champion.

But it's clear anyone who truly believes that hasn't been paying attention - many were saying that about Lando Norris last year.

The McLaren man was perceived by some as being what they consider weak because he's been open about his mental health struggles. In fact, the opposite is true.