© Steve Etherington for Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd.
George Russell says he hasn’t spoken to Lewis Hamilton since he replaced the seven-time champion at the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix, but there are “no issues” between them.
After Lewis Hamilton contracted COVID-19, Mercedes drafted their junior driver George Russell to replace him at the Sakhir Grand Prix. The young Briton impressed everyone after he almost won the race in his first outing for Mercedes. Were it not for a combination of technical issues and team mistakes, he most certainly would have had his first Formula 1 victory.
Russell was asked by the PA news agency if he had spoken to Hamilton since the race, especially considering the seven-time champion has been known to offer words of advice and support to his young countryman.
“No, not at all, we haven’t spoken,” said Russell.
“My relationship with Lewis is fine. There are no issues. I don’t know what I was expecting, and if I was expecting him to say anything after the race.
“But equally I don’t know how I would feel if someone took my seat at Williams.”
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As a Mercedes junior driver Russell has been mentioned as Hamilton’s successor by the media on more than one occasion, and with his Williams contract expiring at the end of the season, many believe he is a favourite for a Mercedes seat in 2022. The Briton expects his contract situation to be resolved by August.
“My relationship with Mercedes and Toto Wolff is stronger than it has ever been. I will focus on myself and I don’t need to be badgering them.
“They know the situation. They know I want to be fighting for victories and championships. They saw what I could do in Bahrain.
“In the past I have always tried to make things happen, but it is different now. I have been with Mercedes for six years, they are my second family, and if it happens it will happen naturally.
“It will not be any longer than the summer break for all parties involved – Mercedes, Williams and for all the drivers – so it is fair on everybody.
“And unless anything catastrophic happens in the coming six months, Mercedes know the position I am in and the position they are in.
“I am getting stronger year-on-year and I believe I am at a level and ready to be fighting for wins and world championships, but we will have to see.
“Formula 1 is a funny business and I don’t take anything for granted,” concluded Russell.
