Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher is putting his money on George Russell beating Lewis Hamilton at the outset at Mercedes.
While everyone is focused on Formula 1's new cars and how they will impact the show on the track and the pecking order, the inner team rivalry at Mercedes between Hamilton and his new teammate could quickly polarize the attention of the sport's fans.
During last week's launch of Mercedes' 2022 contender, Russell emphatically stated that Hamilton and himself need first and foremost to "work together" and not focus on each other.
But Russell's comments haven't diminished the speculation that the 24-year-old is eager to make his mark at the Brackley squad and challenge Hamilton head on.
Commenting on the potential rivalry that could take hold at Mercedes, Schumacher anticipates that Russell will rise to that challenge in short order.
©Mercedes
"I thought it was interesting how gentle the two drivers, Lewis Hamilton and George Russell, were with each other [at Mercedes' launch]," the Sky Germany pundit told Speedweek.
"The young Russell was very careful with his comments and emphasised he wants to learn a lot now.
"The tone was quite different when George replaced Lewis in Bahrain 2020 and drove alongside Valtteri Bottas.
"But I’m convinced that internally it looks different, and I already believe he can beat Lewis from the start."
Although there may be a risk of disruption at Mercedes if things get out of hand between Hamilton and Russell, Schumacher believes the team was right to bring its talented protégé onboard.
"I think Mercedes have a super line-up now," said the six-time Grand Prix winner.
"There was always a push from us on Sky to change something there. I never quite understood why it took so long to replace Valtteri Bottas.
"I think George Russell is an exceptional talent. Whether he will develop like Lewis Hamilton did remains to be seen.
"We also have to remember Lewis is 37 years old and Mercedes have to think about the future."
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