Russell happy that Hamilton wants to stay longer: 'That's very nice for me'

In January, Hamilton turns 38 and his contract with Mercedes expires at the end of 2023. However, the seven-time world champion is not thinking of retirement just yet and previously stated that he would like to sign a new, multi-year deal at Mercedes. Toto Wolff also has no reason to look at other drivers and is happy to sit down with his star driver again.

Russell happy with Hamilton

Russell has scored the most points for the team in 2022, but in the qualifying duel, the young Briton still notices how good Hamilton is. In the races too, Hamilton is increasingly coming into form this year, but is often unlucky with strategy. So although the two are close, Russell thinks it will be good if Hamilton stays.

''It's really exciting to have that potential of Lewis staying on for a number of years to come. I think he has proven that he's definitely not lifted his foot off the throttle pedal, and he's definitely the last few races performing probably better than ever. To go directly head-to-head with him and grow on this journey that we're on together, because it really does feel like a journey that the two of us are on, along with the rest of the team, in trying to bring Mercedes back to winning ways,'' said Russell at Formula1.com.

In 2022, Russell and Hamilton are still fighting for second place among constructors. Ferrari has had the better car for much of the year, but by performing consistently, Mercedes still has the possibility of finishing second. The team is also still chasing its first-ever win of the season.