Russell reveals that 'Change is much needed at Mercedes'
F1 News
George Russell believes that change is needed at Mercedes, with the exit of Lewis Hamilton most likely acting as a catalyst for that. Speaking to GPblog and others in the paddock, the three-time race winner reflected on his final weekend with Lewis Hamilton on the other side of the Mercedes garage, explaining that his exit may even help the team move forward.
Russell made sure to soak up the last moments he had with Hamilton as teammates. Despite finishing in fifth place, the Brit still enjoyed the weekend. "It's been great, to be honest. We had a do (party) on Thursday night all together, and looking back at some of his memories. I think as painful as these three years have been, I think seeing all of these memories as well reminds the team that we can do it," Russell began.
On the final lap of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton overtook George Russell and finished in fourth place after starting the race from 16th place. It was a nice way for Hamilton's Mercedes tenure to end after such a tough qualifying session, where a dislodged bollard got stuck under his W15.
Russell: 'It's been a nice way to finish the season'
"We have the same team as was there during Lewis' glory years, and Lewis even said after the debrief yesterday that everyone had their head in their hands after what happened in qualifying, but he said, ‘Look, let's stand tall and let's not forget all these pole positions and wins that we've had together’, and I think it's been a very nice way to finish the season," Russell revealed. Hamilton will drive for Ferrari next year after spending 12 seasons with Mercedes. In that time, he won an incredible 84 races with The Silver Arrows, as well as six drivers and eight constructors titles. He will be replaced by 18-year-old Italian starlet Andrea Kimi Antonelli.
Hamilton leaving will 'spark a lot of motivation'
"It has been a tough three years, and I think this change for everyone is really going to spark a lot of motivation for everyone, and I think some type of change is really much needed," Russell concluded.
Want more Formula 1? Then follow GPblog on our various social media channels!