Formula 1 is rife with controversy. After the 2025 Bahrain Grand Prix, the paddock became a media battleground. Mercedes finally broke its silence following Lando Norris’ shocking accusation that the German team used illegal tyres to benefit George Russell. The reaction on social media was swift.

It all started with a post-race interview in which Lando Norris , who was clearly disappointed at not making it to the podium, made a widely circulated rant:

“Some cars seem to have better grip than usual… maybe someone should check the tires.”

Although no direct name was mentioned, the cameras were all focused on George Russell , who had performed particularly well in the final laps of the GP.

Norris’s post spread like wildfire on social media. Within hours, hashtags like #RussellGate, #NorrisTruth , and #MercedesTricks were trending globally.

After 48 hours of strategic silence,  the Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team has issued a strong statement in which it completely denies the allegations:

“We are extremely disappointed by the insinuations made after the Bahrain GP. Mercedes always competes within the framework of the FIA ​​regulations. The recent statements are not only untrue but also damaging to the integrity of the sport.”

The team also asked the FIA ​​to investigate “based on facts and not rumours that damage the reputation of the team and the drivers involved”.

In a video posted on his Instagram account, George Russell appeared calm but resolute:

“I have nothing to hide. I have always raced cleanly. I am proud to represent Mercedes and I am sorry that people are focusing on unfounded controversy instead of the sport.”

His remarks received widespread support, but also mixed criticism. Meanwhile, Lando Norris has yet to make any further public statements.

Formula 1 fans have flocked to digital platforms. While some users are demanding sanctions against Mercedes, others are accusing Norris of launching a “smear campaign” to cover up his poor performance.

On X (formerly Twitter) , thousands of posts have flooded the timeline:

• “Lando is right, something smells fishy about that Mercedes. FIA, do your job.”
• “It’s unfortunate that Norris is making accusations without evidence. Russell won fair and square.”
• “F1 needs more transparency. You can’t blindly trust anyone.”

Even sports celebrities and former drivers such as Jenson Button and David Coulthard have weighed in on the issue, calling for “calm” and “an objective investigation.”

The FIA ​​has announced it will review the case internally , although it has not confirmed a formal investigation. If any technical violations are found, Mercedes could face fines, loss of points, or even suspensions.

For its part, the German team has reiterated that it will fully cooperate with any technical audit , reaffirming that “transparency is part of its competitive DNA.”

This scandal comes at a crucial time, with just the first race of the season underway. While Mercedes showed great pace in Bahrain , this cloud of controversy could affect its brand image and destabilize the team internally.

Furthermore, the relationship between Russell and Norris, two of Britain’s most promising talents, appears to have suffered a severe breakdown.

The atmosphere in Formula 1 is more charged than ever. Between inflammatory statements, official announcements, and a fervent online community, the “Russell – Illegal Tires” case promises to be one of the most talked-about episodes of the season. Are we facing a dirty campaign or a real scandal in the paddock? Only time—and the FIA—will tell.