Mercedes promise George Russell he WILL NOT be Lewis Hamilton's number two

George Russell and Lewis Hamilton — Photo: © LAT Images

Italian Grand Prix

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Mercedes promise Russell he WILL NOT be Hamilton's number two

Mercedes will continue stance of providing both drivers with equal chance

Ian Parkes & Sam Hall

Thursday 9 September 2021 19:03

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George Russell has revealed a promise from Mercedes he will not serve as a number two driver to Lewis Hamilton when he joins the F1 team next year.

On Tuesday, Mercedes confirmed Russell will race for the Silver Arrows in 2022, replacing Alfa Romeo-bound Valtteri Bottas.

Throughout Bottas' five-year stay, Mercedes has maintained its drivers receive equal support, with Russell confirming this will remain the case following his switch.

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“I’m definitely going on level terms and that was made very clear to me," said Russell. "Mercedes are always respectful in that regard, to give both drivers the best opportunity.

“Naturally, I believe in myself and I have high aspirations but equally I know just how tough it is going to be.

“Lewis is a seven-time world champion for a reason and I think I’m in one of the most fortunate positions on the grid to be able to go out there and learn from him.

“For myself, I see this partnership with Mercedes as a long-term thing and I need to use next year as a real opportunity to learn everything I can and take it race by race and just see how I get on.”

Mercedes-switch 'a homecoming of sort's

Russell joined Mercedes' junior team in 2017 and enjoyed back-to-back success in GP3 and Formula 2 before graduating into F1.

For the Briton, returning to Mercedes feels like he is returning to where it all began.

"It’s pretty surreal to be honest because I’ve been part of Mercedes for so long now," said Russell.

"I joined as a junior driver going through the ranks, tested for them, reserve driver and then still, being at Williams, they overlooked everything and managed me.

“So in a way, I’m almost returning back to where I started my journey towards F1.

“But equally, it’s sad to close this chapter with Williams but it has been a great journey and I’m so pleased we’ve had some great results of recent races to show for our efforts.”