George Russell says that after three years of sharing the Mercedes garage with Lewis Hamilton, the most profound takeaway from his time with the legendary driver is learning what it truly means to be a role model.
Since joining the Brackley squad in 2022, Russell has measured up impressively against Hamilton, more than matching the latter’s pace and consistency, while maintaining a harmonious and respectful relationship.
As their partnership concluded at the season finale in Abu Dhabi, Russell was asked about his time spent alongside the seven-time world champion and what had impressed him most about his illustrious teammate.
Interestingly, Russell’s reflections weren’t centered on Hamilton’s record-breaking accolades or racecraft but rather on how he carries himself, particularly in the public eye.
“To be honest, I think just seeing first-hand what a role model he is,” Russell explained, quoted by Motorsport Week.
“I think I sort of recognise from Lewis that we’ve all got this platform, and we have to use it correctly.”
“That’s become even more apparent to me when, with my young niece and nephews, watching TikTok and YouTube and Netflix.
“I spend a bit of time with Toto’s son, who also, he and his friends see Netflix and all of this stuff. And how you deal with the victories, how you deal with the losses, you inspire the young kids.
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For Russell, this realization was deeply personal. He recounted a memory of meeting Hamilton as a young karting hopeful in 2009, capturing the moment in a photograph that has since become iconic.
“When I look back to that photo I had of Lewis and I when I was a kid, I looked up to him, the same way as all these kids look up to us,” he said.
“I think that’s probably been the biggest life lesson that I’ve learned from him, that sometimes, even if you want to really express something, there are hundreds of millions of people watching, and the way do you it is important.”
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Hamilton has long used his platform to advocate for causes beyond racing, such as diversity and inclusion through his Mission 44 initiative.
Russell’s remarks underscored the ripple effect Hamilton’s efforts have had on his teammates and the broader community.
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix marked not only the end of an era but also a passing of the torch within Mercedes. Before the race, Russell embraced Hamilton on the grid, a gesture symbolizing both respect and transition.
With Hamilton departing for Ferrari in 2025, Russell will step into the role of the team’s senior figure, mentoring 18-year-old Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who joins as his new teammate.
“Kimi’s exceptionally fast, and I’ve got no doubt he’s going to really keep me on my toes next year,” Russell said of his new partner.
“Three years working with Lewis has been exceptional, but I’m really looking forward to seeing what we can do together from next year onwards.”
As Russell steps into his new leadership role, it’s clear that Hamilton’s example will remain a guiding force.
While their time as teammates has come to an end, the lessons Russell has absorbed from Hamilton are certain to shape his own trajectory as a role model for future generations in the sport.
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