George Russell reflects on his time alongside Lewis Hamilton and reveals the biggest lesson he learned from the seven-time world champion
George Russell and Lewis Hamilton have not only shared successes and challenges in racing during their time together as Formula One teammates at Mercedes, but have also built a relationship characterized by mutual respect and important lessons.
For Russell, who has been racing alongside Hamilton since 2022, this collaboration has been a formative experience that extends far beyond the racetrack.
A mentor and role model
The Briton describes Hamilton not only as an exceptional driver, but above all as a role model in the way he uses his position and platform for higher goals than race wins and titles. “I’ve learned from Lewis that we all have this platform and we need to use it properly,” explains Russell.
He says he has gained this insight from Hamilton’s approach to victories and defeats, but also from his commitment off the track. He has used his voice in recent years to advocate for social justice, diversity, and sustainability, making him a role model beyond motorsport.
Russell himself has been inspired by this perspective to think more consciously about his own role as a public figure, especially with regard to the younger generation.
“When I see my young nieces and nephews following the sport on TikTok, YouTube and Netflix, or Toto Wolff’s son and his friends admiring us, it’s clear how much influence we have. You inspire young children,” he says.
Teammates and rivals
The years as teammates gave Russell and Hamilton the opportunity to get to know each other better. While Russell, at the beginning of his Mercedes career, was seen primarily as an ambitious young driver who had to prove himself against a seven-time world champion, a respectful working relationship quickly developed.
Despite the inevitable competition within the team, the relationship between the two was characterized by professionalism and mutual understanding.
Russell made his mark in the 2022 season with his first Grand Prix victory in Brazil, establishing himself as a driver to be taken seriously. At the same time, he was able to benefit from Hamilton’s experience, especially in difficult phases when the team had problems with the car.
Personal memories
Finally, Russell shares a very personal memory of Hamilton: “There’s this photo of him when I was a kid,” he says. “Back then, I looked up to him just as many kids look up to us both today.”
A comparison that makes him aware of the responsibility that comes with his role as a Formula One driver. “The way you express yourself and act inspires millions of people – and that makes a real difference,” he says. “I think that’s probably the biggest lesson I’ve learned from Lewis.”
