George Russell reveals how viral 'T-pose' was accidentally created

Motorsport photo

George Russell's viral 'T-pose' was created by accident, according to the Mercedes Formula 1 driver.

What started as a moment of rest for the Briton during a long photo shoot ahead of the 2023 season ended up being one of the most viral moments of the year. It quickly made its way across social media with many fans taking the opportunity to recreate the pose.

All of the drivers have to take part in photo shoot/filming days ahead of the season to create the opening credits. While Russell rested his hands on the walls and dipped his head as he waited for the next shot, the producer pushed for him to be photographed in that position.

"Ah, the infamous T-pose," Russell smiled during a Q&A video with Mercedes. "So, this was the F1 intro that I did in 2023. It wasn't intentional at all. It was actually out of boredom and tiredness.

"It was about 11:30 at night. We were on this long photo shoot, and I just put my hands up on the side of the wall, just waiting for my next shot and the producer was like, 'That's pretty cool.'

"And next thing I know, the T-pose was invented. So, I need to thank that guy, we need to find out who the director was that day."

George Russell, Mercedes

George Russell, Mercedes

With the intense online attention around the pose, Russell began to include it during his victory celebrations. After winning the 2024 Austrian Grand Prix, Russell performed the pose before he jumped down from his Mercedes F1 car.

Russell started off the 2026 season on a strong note, winning the Australian Grand Prix and Chinese sprint race. But after some bad luck and strong performances from his team-mate Kimi Antonelli, the Briton saw the lead of the championship slip away from him.