Just In: George Russell sent another Mercedes sack threat as Lewis Hamilton ‘gets brutally…read more
George Russell sent another Mercedes sack threat as Lewis Hamilton ‘gets brutally…read more
Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner has warned that George Russell’s seat with Mercedes is far from secure, while teammate Lewis Hamilton, already confirmed to join Ferrari next season, has been openly critical of Mercedes’ performance without jeopardizing his position. Hamilton, who announced his move to Ferrari earlier this year, has become increasingly outspoken about the issues with the Mercedes W15 car, which he recently described as the “worst” he has ever driven. During the Brazilian Grand Prix, Hamilton expressed his frustration, comparing the car to a “plank of wood” and labeling the race weekend as a “disaster,” particularly after his Q1 elimination. Although he managed to salvage a single point, Hamilton voiced disappointment, calling the performance “unacceptable.”
Steiner believes Hamilton’s candid comments are possible because of his confirmed departure, noting that with his Ferrari contract secured, Hamilton can express frustration without worrying about the repercussions on his Mercedes seat. “Knowing he’s leaving, it’s easier for him to complain,” Steiner said on the Red Flag podcast. “The car is what it is. It’s not the best—it’s the fourth best on a good day.” According to Steiner, Russell is in a different position. With his Mercedes contract expiring at the end of 2025, the young driver must work hard to prove his value to the team if he wants to secure his place in the long term. “George has to show he’s the leader of the team for the future,” Steiner added, explaining that Russell’s seat “is not 100 percent safe,” and he’s motivated to give his best to earn that stability.
Nico Rosberg, a former Mercedes driver and world champion, echoed Steiner’s concerns, previously suggesting that Russell’s position is vulnerable. The pressure on Russell has only intensified with rookie Kimi Antonelli joining as his teammate next season, and rumors persist that Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff is interested in Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, the reigning three-time champion.
With three races left in the season, Hamilton’s departure is looming, and his recent frustrations underscore his struggle to find satisfaction with the Mercedes car. For Russell, the pressure remains high to secure his future as Mercedes’ top driver, with the added task of stepping up as a potential team leader when Hamilton exits.
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