Russell: ‘When things click, we’ll see more Hamilton magic’

40

George Russell is confident that Formula 1 will soon see Lewis Hamilton deliver the “magic” he is capable of producing, once things start to click for the seven-time world champion at Ferrari.

Hamilton’s highly anticipated move to the Scuderia has yet to deliver the results many expected. Despite a standout Sprint victory in Shanghai, he remains winless in Grand Prix races and trails teammate Charles Leclerc in the standings.

Ferrari, currently fourth in the Constructors’ Championship, has grappled with the SF-25’s inconsistent performance since the beginning of this year’s campaign.

But speaking last weekend in Jeddah, Russell dismissed doubts about Hamilton’s form, pointing to his former Mercedes teammate’s proven pedigree.

“I don’t really know, to be honest,” Russell said when asked about Hamilton’s transition.

“He’s a seven-time World Champion, incredibly experienced, and an amazing driver. We saw it in China – pole in the Sprint, wins the race comfortably.

“I know what he’s capable of, and I’m sure when things start to click, we’ll see more of that magic.”

Russell Riding High, but Realistic About Title Hopes

While Hamilton is fighting to find his feet at Ferrari, Russell has enjoyed a strong start to the year.

The Mercedes driver has notched three podiums from the opening five races and has looked far more at ease in his machinery than his former teammate with his new team.

Still, Russell remains grounded in his expectations for 2025.

“My aspirations are to fight for the World Championship and, being realistic, we don’t have a car to fight McLaren,” he said. “They’ve left the door open a couple of times, but I don’t expect that to continue over 24 races.”

As Ferrari searches for consistency and Hamilton battles to unlock the SF-25’s potential, Russell’s words serve as a reminder of the champion’s untapped brilliance.

With 19 races left in the 2025 season, the F1 world is watching to see if Hamilton can make things “click” and deliver the magic Russell so firmly believes in.

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via X and Facebook

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.