George Russell “doesn’t have much to lose” against Lewis Hamilton, says Charles Leclerc

“I’m pretty sure he’ll show the world his talent,” says Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc of longtime friend and rival George Russell after the Brit’s place alongside Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes for 2022 was confirmed.

by James Galloway

Last updated: 09/09/21 17:17

Charles Leclerc can see parallels with George Russell’s arrival at Mercedes alongside Lewis Hamilton to joining Ferrari as Sebastian Vettel’s teammate.

Russell has finally been confirmed this week as a Mercedes driver for next season, when the 23-year-old will replace longtime Valtteri Bottas alongside Hamilton after three promising seasons at Williams.

Two years ago it was Leclerc, then 21, who came into the Ferrari spotlight to join a multiple world champion, Vettel, after an impressive year of debut at Sauber. But despite the large experience gap, Leclerc was successful in his first season and overtook the four-time champion on the first try. Vettel’s contract was not then renewed for 2021.

As the most successful driver in the history of the sport with all key records held either directly or jointly, Hamilton clearly represents the ultimate challenge for Russell. But, having taken on one of the sport’s greats himself, Leclerc believes that Russell, with whom he raced from the junior formula, will also present himself well.

“This is quite a similar situation to mine when I arrived at Ferrari with Seb by my side,” Leclerc told Sky Sport F1.

Sky F1’s Simon Lazenby and Martin Brundle look forward to this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix from Monza

Sky F1’s Simon Lazenby and Martin Brundle look forward to this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix from Monza

“This is a great position to be in.

“George is very talented and will be next to one of the best in the history of the sport, so he doesn’t have much to lose which is a good position to be in. He can just give it all and show his talent.

“I’m pretty sure he’ll show his talent to the world.”

More to follow …

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