Hamilton Gives Honest Verdict On Whether Russell Can Lead Mercedes

Thursday, 29 February 2024 at 13:30

Lewis Hamilton discussed whether his teammate George Russell would be able to lead Mercedes after he left the team at the end of 2024.

Even though he previously claimed he would stay with Mercedes until he retires, Lewis Hamilton changed his mind ahead of the 2024 season and signed a deal with Ferrari starting in 2025.

This means two things. First is that the team principal, Toto Wolff, has to look for a suitable driver to replace the seven-time World Champion, and the second is that Russell will be expected to take over the leadership role at Mercedes, which Hamilton held for a long time.

The 25-year-old has been part of Mercedes's academy for a long time and has been driving for the German team since the beginning of 2022. By the time Hamilton leaves, Russell will be about to enroll in his fourth season with the team.

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As to whether his younger teammate will be able to take over the leader role, the 39-year-old Briton told the media at Bahrain International Circuit:

“"I'm sure he can. I don't know what else to say about it. George is very technical and massively engaging and has come a long way since joining Williams and then joining the team. He's incredibly close with Toto. No doubt that will be his position."”

The team principal of Mercedes previously stated that Russell is the team's future. While he may not have expected the seven-time World Champion to leave so soon, he had already asserted he couldn't wish for a better team leader than the 25-year-old.

Former F1 driver Martin Brundle also mentioned he believes Russell is ready to "pick up the mantle at Mercedes," saying the Mercedes driver has already proved himself with performances measured against the most successful driver of all time. What do you think? Can George Russell lead Mercedes towards another Championship title?