Formula One driver George Russell has shared an important lesson he learned from ex-teammate Lewis Hamilton – prioritizing victory above all else. Since Hamilton’s departure, Russell has evolved into a proficient team leader for Mercedes. During their time together at Mercedes, Russell challenged Hamilton and has now elevated his own performance.
Russell’s growth is evident as he stands out as one of the select few, alongside Max Verstappen and the McLaren drivers, to secure Grand Prix wins in the 2025 season. Reflecting on his journey, Russell acknowledged the significant influence Hamilton had on his mindset, emphasizing the importance of putting winning first.
Looking to the future, Russell aims to emulate Hamilton’s ability to make choices about his career path. With a new multi-year contract with Mercedes recently signed, worth approximately £30 million per season, Russell is set to continue his F1 journey into the upcoming technical regulation era. He envisions building a solid foundation for his future in the sport, ensuring that he retains control over his career trajectory as he matures in the sport.