George Russell REFUTES Lewis Hamilton’s claims of having a worse set-up after outperforming him at Bahrain GP

Lewis Hamilton had claimed that George Russell had a more favorable car setup during Bahrain GP Qualifying.

George Russell REFUTES Lewis Hamilton’s claims of having a worse set-up after outperforming him at Bahrain GP

George Russell [L] Lewis Hamilton [R] (images via IMAGO)

Mercedes had a mediocre weekend at the 2024 season opener, the Bahrain GP. Lewis Hamilton struggled to match George Russell in Qualifying. The seven-time world champion claimed that his car set-up was more focused for the race compared to the 26-year-old. However, Hamilton was outperformed by his teammate in the Grand Prix as well. Now, Russell has questioned the comments of his world-champion teammate.

George Russell mentioned that many in the paddock were surprised to see Hamilton struggle in the race. The 26-year-old claimed that there was no major difference between the set-ups of the two Mercedes. Russell reckoned that as far as he knew, Lewis Hamilton had adopted a rather similar set-up.

Many people have said this. I don’t really know the big differences, to be honest, because as far as I’m aware with the cars we’re pretty similar.
George Russell said as reported by PlanetF1
YouTube video

Moreover, Russell claimed that he didn’t focus too much on the car set-up of Lewis Hamilton. The 26-year-old even stated that his car was more catered towards race spec compared to the seven-time world champion before heading into Qualifying. A direct contradiction to Hamilton’s words.

FS Video
I don’t really focus too much on his set-up. Mine was actually more set up for the race than the set-up he ran. At least it was on Friday [for qualifying].

George Russell outperforms Ferrari-bound Lewis Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton’s announcement to join Ferrari shocked many in the paddock. However, the 39-year-old’s exit would pave the way for Russell to become the team leader at Mercedes. So much so, that even Hamilton has claimed that it would be the perfect role for the 26-year-old next year.

George Russell and Lewis Hamilton
George Russell and Lewis Hamilton (Via IMAGO)

Despite Hamilton’s future exit, Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff assured that both drivers will get fair treatment in 2024. George Russell managed to outshine his world-champion teammate during the first round of the season. This could potentially allow the Silver Arrows to slowly shift its focus on its long-term prospect.

Certainly, Lewis Hamilton would be looking to bounce back with a strong result at the Saudi Arabian GP. However, it seems that George Russell is in a comfortable place at the Silver Arrows which could make it difficult for the 39-year-old. Fans would be hoping to see an exciting rivalry between the two drivers this year.

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