Russell filling Hamilton’s shoes, says Mercedes official

AFP | Suzuka

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George Russell has “stepped up” for Mercedes and grown into a leadership role since Lewis Hamilton left for Ferrari, the team’s engineering director said yesterday.

Russell is now the German team’s senior driver after seven-time world champion Hamilton departed at the end of last season and was replaced by 18-year-old rookie Kimi Antonelli.

Russell has responded with two third-placed finishes to start the season and Andrew Shovlin said the 27-yearold Briton was embracing his role as Antonelli’s mentor.

“George is trying to give him t h e benefit of his experience,” Shovlin said at the Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka.

“ George has stepped up into that role being the team’s most experienced driver now.

“We always knew he was quick. In his own approach he has brought a confidence and a calmness this year that’s working very well for us.”

Antonelli has made a strong start to his F1 career, finishing fourth in Australia and sixth in China.

“It’s really pleasing to see how the two of them are working tog e t h e r a n d how George has stepped up into that role,” said Shovlin.

Russell is out of contract at the end of the season and Red Bull’s four-time world champion Max Verstappen has been linked with a move to Mercedes.