British Formula One star George Russell has quietly joined the growing list of global celebrities slipping into Kenya, and, as usual, the internet noticed.
The Mercedes-AMG Petronas driver was recently spotted vacationing in the country with his girlfriend, Carmen Montero Mundt, enjoying a luxury safari at the Maasai Mara Game Reserve.
Despite clearly hoping to keep a low profile, a sharp-eyed netizen blew his cover, sparking excitement among Kenyan motorsport fans and Formula 1 enthusiasts online.
Photos and short videos circulating on social media show Russell cruising through the Mara in a high-end Land Cruiser, camera in hand, soaking in the wildlife like any other tourist, except this one happens to be among the fastest drivers on the planet.
News of the visit quickly sent Mercedes and F1 fans into a frenzy, with many expressing surprise and pride that the British driver chose Kenya for his holiday.
Others praised the Maasai Mara’s growing reputation as a discreet playground for the world’s elite, offering privacy far from flashing cameras and red carpets.
Russell’s visit shines a spotlight on a quiet trend where celebrities are increasingly choosing the Maasai Mara for private, off-grid getaways.
The iconic reserve has become a favourite for A-listers seeking luxury, seclusion and authentic nature experiences.
Past guests include Ip Man star Donnie Yen, Hollywood actress Salma Hayek, global icon Priyanka Chopra, and Bollywood royalty Kareena Kapoor and Ranbir Kapoor.
For casual fans, George Russell is no ordinary tourist.
The 26-year-old Brit is one of Formula 1’s brightest stars, racing for Mercedes with an impressive résumé that includes five Grand Prix wins, 24 podium finishes, and a career-best fourth-place championship finish in 2022.
Before reaching Formula One, Russell dominated the junior categories, winning the 2017 GP3 Series and the 2018 Formula 2 championship in consecutive seasons, a rare achievement that cemented his reputation as a future world champion.