Russell sees in-season development as key to success in 2022

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George Russell says multiple teams will be capable of "doing something special" this year, but in-season development will reward the top contenders.

Russell has inherited Valtteri Bottas' plum Mercedes seat for 2022, the Finn departing the Brackley squad for Alfa Romeo Racing.

Many have high expectations for the former Williams driver who is expected to challenge for race wins from the outset with the reigning world champions.

However, Russell is expecting several outfits to be snapping at Mercedes' heels and mixing it up with his team and Red Bull at the head of the field, starting with the red cars from the House of Maranello.

Read also: Hill cautions Russell over ultra-confident approach to Hamilton challenge

"A team like Ferrari, who have been through a difficult period over the last two years, are going to be so hungry, especially with the new rule changes, to come back fighting," Russell told the media.

"Similar with McLaren as well. These teams have got the infrastructure, they've got the talent within the engineering departments, within the drivers as well, to really, really fight."

With the front-running teams jockeying for position in the first part of the season, Russell reckons that development rates will eventually come in to play as each outfit's gains a better understanding of their new cars.

"I truly believe there are probably five teams all capable of really doing something special next year, so you've got to be absolutely on it," Russell commented.

"I think the development is going to be so key next year. It's not going to be whoever has the fastest race, or Barcelona test or Bahrain race.

"It's whoever manages to understand their car well, and can develop and build from those foundations throughout the year, and I think all of the teams are going to make big progress from race one to the end of the season."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.