Lewis Hamilton News: F1 legend David Coulthard hails George Russell's 'winning mentality' despite Belgian GP disqualification

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F1 legend insists 'winning mentality' nearly thwarted Hamilton victory

Lewis Hamilton won the Belgian Grand Prix after George Russell was disqualified

Kevin McKenna

Thursday 1 August 2024 12:57

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Formula 1 legend David Coulthard has delivered his verdict on Lewis Hamilton's controversial victory at the Belgian Grand Prix.

The seven-time world champion was beaten in Spa by team-mate George Russell, with the Mercedes pair finishing ahead of Oscar Piastri, who rounded off the top three.

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However, on what should have been a perfect day for the Brackley-based team at the last race before the summer break, their celebrations were halted following a shock post-race development.

Just moments after Russell had stepped off the podium, news emerged that the former Williams racer's car was 1.5kg under the minimum weight, resulting in a disqualification from the race.

It was a devastating blow for the 26-year-old, who had delivered a magnificent performance on a one-stop strategy to keep his rivals at bay.

George Russell was denied a second victory of the season in Spa

Lewis Hamilton was promoted to P1 after Russell's disqualification

Russell hailed after devastating blow

The team error robbed Russell of his third career victory - and second of the season after winning in Austria - and handed Hamilton the victory instead.

As a result, Charles Leclerc was promoted to third, ahead of title rivals Max Verstappen and Lando Norris.

Speaking on the Formula for Success Podcast, former McLaren driver Coulthard sympathised with Russell given what transpired, but was quick to praise his 'winner's mentality', which should stand him in good stead going forward.

“It was a cracking race - it was a really good race except if you’re George Russell, so let’s address that first of all," said the Scot.

“He seems that he drove the decision to go for the one-stop from the cockpit, so that’s a winner’s mentality.

"Not just following the instructions of the team which would have almost certainly put him behind Lewis Hamilton who drove faultlessly, it has to be said."

Red Bull Lewis Hamilton Ferrari Mercedes Christian Horner George Russell