George Russell has shared the important lesson he gleaned from former colleague Lewis Hamilton – that success on the track takes precedence over everything else. Since the departure of the seven-time world champion last winter, Mercedes’ top driver has evolved into a strong team leader.

Russell pushed Hamilton to perform at his best during their time together at Mercedes. Now, with young talent Kimi Antonelli replacing the veteran racer at the Bahrain Grand Prix, Russell has been tasked with elevating his own performance.

He has risen to the challenge. With only six races left in the 2025 season, Russell stands out as one of the few drivers, alongside Max Verstappen and the McLaren duo, to have clinched a Grand Prix victory. His wins in Montreal and Singapore showcase the application of a crucial lesson instilled in him by his former teammate.

Reflecting on his growth, Russell recognized the profound impact Hamilton had on his mindset. In an article for The Players’ Tribune, he acknowledged the shift in dynamics following Hamilton’s move to Ferrari. Russell marveled at Hamilton’s relentless pursuit of greatness, emphasizing the primary importance of winning in the sport.

Looking ahead, Russell aims to secure his own legacy and autonomy in Formula One. His commitment to building a solid foundation for the future reflects his aspirations for longevity in the sport, echoing Hamilton’s strategic approach to career longevity.

Russell’s journey in F1 will continue with Mercedes under the new technical regulations. Recently, the British driver signed a lucrative multi-year contract, reportedly valued at around £30 million per season, ahead of the United States Grand Prix.

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