Damon Hill, former British Formula 1 champion, trusts that Lewis Hamilton will be helpful to his new team mate, George Russell. He trusts that seven times world champion will not held one-man show rather he will “lend a hand” to the young driver.
Valtteri Bottas, who served alongside Hamilton, has moved to Alfa Romeo. This creater opportunity for the British driver Russell to join his parent team. Williams Formula 1 team borrowed him for three year.
The partnership between the two British drivers could last two years before the seven times world champion wishes to retire.
Hamilton agreement with Mercedes expires in two years after the 2023 season. However, his controversial defeat in last year season has put his return in hanging.
Hill believes if Hamilton returns, he will be a great source for Russell.
“It will be great to follow,” he told Motorsport.com of the new Mercedes pairing.
“I’m sure Lewis will encourage George. I don’t see it going wrong.
“Lewis recognises that his shelf-life in the sport is shorter than George’s, so I’m sure he’ll be willing to lend a hand if needed. That is probably not necessary at all.”
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Hill says that it all depends on the Russell, how he treats the help lent by Hamilton.
“It’s up to George to decide how he’s going to handle it,” he continued. “You can approach such a situation with ‘he is the enemy and I am going to teach him a lesson’.
“That might not be the smartest thing to do with Lewis next to you. So yes, we have a lot to look forward to.”
“The boy has everything that is needed,” he added. “He’s above the rest, you know.”
Lando Norris, McLaren’s British driver, does not fail to impress Hill. .
“George and Lando are both great racers,” he added. “They are very strong in the race and the qualifying speed is also good.
“But being at the front of the race demands different things from a driver, and you can’t let that compromise your talent. That’s another challenge.
“But they are both smart guys and I am sure they can handle it.”
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