Lewis Hamilton ‘turned the tide’ against George Russell to solidify his status at Mercedes, says David Coulthard

Lewis Hamilton has outperformed George Russell substantially over the course of the 2023 season so far.

Lewis Hamilton ‘turned the tide’ against George Russell to solidify his status at Mercedes, says David Coulthard

Lewis Hamilton and George Russel (Credits: Express)

Sr.Lewis Hamilton and George Russell make for a formidable pairing at Mercedes. The two drivers represent the present and the future of the Brackley-based team. Hamilton had failed to match his new teammate in 2022 with the new regulations. However, the 7-time champion has gained an advantage over Russell this season. David Coulthard explained the reason behind this shift at the Silver Arrows.

The Briton reminded fans about not ruling out the 38-year-old when Russell had the upper hand last season. Coulthard was convinced that when Lewis Hamilton struck back, he would be unstoppable. Indeed that has been the case with the seven-time world champion achieving three podiums this season compared to just one top 3 finish for Russell.

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David believed that Hamilton had successfully turned things around at the Silver Arrows with recent performances. The 38-year-old has scored 102 points this season and is fourth in the standings. At the same time, Russell has merely obtained a total of 65 points. Coulthard stated, “We have definitely seen a turning of the tide, in terms of Lewis is looking pretty sharp, there’s this spring in his voice when he’s talking to the team.”

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Lewis Hamilton set to make things difficult for George Russell?

Lewis Hamilton and George Russell, image via MotorsportMagazine.com
Lewis Hamilton and George Russell, image via MotorsportMagazine.com

The 7-time world champion has been a stable part of Mercedes since 2013. Although questions have been raised over Hamilton’s future in the sport as he ages. However, there have been rumors that Lewis has demanded a $320 Million five-year contract. This could act as a spanner in the works for Russell who would be forced to stay behind his star teammate for another half a decade.

Though no deal has been finalized between Hamilton and Mercedes, critics believe an announcement can be made in the coming weeks. The Silver Arrows would be keen on securing its world champion driver even if that could affect the future of its young prospect. As such, Russell would be keeping an eye on the contract discussions of his teammate.

Lewis Hamilton has re-established his place at Brackley. Despite a slow start to the new F1 regulations in 2022, the 38-year-old has bounced back against teammate George Russell and proved his worth as a seven-time world champion. Although, it remains to be seen how things pan out for Hamilton and Russell throughout this season.

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