What would an F1 driver ideally do after winning his first ever championship? In most cases, try to replicate that result next year.  But Nico Rosberg was built differently. The German decided to call it quits after a magical year. This paved the way for this exciting prospect named Valtteri Bottas to partner with one of the greats of the sport, Lewis Hamilton.

The duo shared an amazing relationship on the track, helping Mercedes to five consecutive constructor titles. But, the pressure of being Lewis Hamilton’s teammate was immense on the Finnish driver. Moreover, Valtteri, to play the perfect wingman, had to sacrifice his dream of becoming a world champion.

In 2022, Toto Wolff decided to replace Valtteri with Mercedes prodigy, George Russell. This was a surprising call, as Valtteri had been instrumental to Mercedes’ success over the years.

Reflecting on this, Mercedes’ Team Principal, Toto Wolff, in a recent interview with Channel 4 Sport, said, “I think it was a good moment for Valtteri to leave the team. The pressure was enormous on him. He didn’t want to be a wingman, and I think having released him from that pressure, now he is racing at Alfa (Rome0) is completely different.

“He also seems happier, for me, rather than this pressure cooker at Mercedes. In terms of this decision-making for myself I knew I wanted to have George in the car,” Toto added.

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Everyone expected George Russell to take some time to settle in. But this young talent has already surpassed all expectations.

George Russell takes up the baton in style

We all know how difficult it can be for a driver to drive alongside Lewis Hamilton. However, George has made it look easy. Mr. Consistency has 7 podiums to his name in his debut season, placing him 33 points ahead of seven-time world champion, Lewis Hamilton.

Toto Wolff believes George Russell can reach the summit of F1. Speaking about his young star, Toto said, “George is a champion in the making and he was a champion in all the junior categories – in F3, F2, as a rookie.”

“We would have never put him in a Mercedes if we didn’t believe he can be a future world champion.”

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George Russell is one of the most talented drivers in the sport right now. But, do you guys think he will be able to stop the flying Dutchman, Max Verstappen, in the future?