Russell on Hamilton "One of the most hardworking F1 drivers I’ve ever come across"

George Russell has been involved with the Mercedes set-up for a long period of time and has, therefore, had plenty of opportunities to get to know fellow-British Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton. The Williams driver may be hopeful of replicating Hamilton's success at Mercedes in the coming years. One of the lessons he's learnt from Hamilton is to work hard for everything. 

Hard work 

"Probably the biggest thing is seeing how much hard work Lewis puts into it. He’s sort of perceived to be this guy who just rocks up to the track, gets in the car and goes fastest. But he puts so much effort in – one of the most hardworking drivers I’ve ever come across," Russell explains to F1 Racing. 

The 21-year-old would have watched Hamilton in his early McLaren days as a child and has since spent a lot of time analysing footage. Russell seems keen to learn as much as he can from the six-time world champion and has therefore spotted all of the small details. 

"I’ve noticed there are so many small details he does on-track that all add up to why he’s so quick, and how he goes about really trying to get the most from the car, the tyres and everything. That really struck me – he doesn’t just rely on his talent," Russell added. 

Russell to Mercedes?

Russell will spend another year with Williams. Whether that will be at the back of the grid like last year remains to be seen. Even though Russell was unable to showcase his talents in the midfield, he did out-qualify Robert Kubica in all 21 qualifying sessions. With Esteban Ocon seemingly out of his way for the Mercedes seat, he could well be one of the favoured drivers to replace Hamilton. However, the Silver Arrows will probably want to see Russell in more overtaking battles to demonstrate his skills under pressure.