Hamilton on Russell’s arrival: “he will bring a new breath”
Mercedes will line up George Russell alongside Lewis Hamilton in 2022. The Briton expects his compatriot to be "super hungry". He hopes that his arrival will energize the team.
Formula 1 is preparing to enter a new era in 2022, as well as Mercedes. Next year, the German team will field a new driver for the first time since 2017 in place of Valtteri Bottas. George Russell will be alongside Lewis Hamilton and this duo promises to be interesting.
Before the start of the weekend in Monza, the seven-time champion reflected on this change and is gauging the impact of young drivers in this sport. The arrival of young drivers is positive for the future of F1 according to the Briton.
« I think the young talent that is emerging is so good for the sport and is the future. Fresh blood in our team is going to be great, because I am the old one now. I think this will certainly energize the whole team, knowing that they have a new young player who is super hungry, motivated, and will drive the team forward.
Hamilton has not yet taken the time to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of his future teammate. However, he acknowledges Russell’s talent and hopes that their partnership will be effective as of next year.
« There is no doubt that he is incredibly talented. I have not examined in detail where he is weak. I just know that he will continue to get stronger, even in the nine remaining races in 2021, and next year he will bring a new breath.
Before seeing Russell land at Mercedes, the German team is aiming to win the constructors’ championship against Red Bull. It is currently twelve points behind its competitor, but the season is still long for the Hamilton-Bottas duo.
