Hamilton F1 exit "would be bad" for Russell

Williams team principal Jost Capito believes George Russell would lose out if Lewis Hamilton opted not to return to F1 this year.

Since missing out on an eighth F1 title in controversial circumstances at the end of last season, Hamilton has gone to ground, notably spurning all social media.

That has fuelled speculation as to his desire to see out the remaining two years of his Mercedes contract, and potentially leaving Mercedes with a hole to fill so soon before the start of the next campaign.

As to whether Hamilton calls it a day or not, an honest Capito told RTL: "I don't care about it, I don't really care if he drives or not."

Capito feels Hamilton departing would at least open the door for a new, young driver.

He added: "It's always said that there aren't enough places for young drivers.

"Then I think if someone has been world champion seven times, he's actually done enough and could make room for a boy, why not?"

Capito, though, would feel for Russell who finally has the chance he has craved this season to prove himself alongside the best after earning his promotion to Mercedes after three years of learning his craft with Williams.

"As far as I'm concerned, it would be bad for George because then he couldn't beat him [Hamilton] and I think he would like to beat him," suggested Capito.

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