Remember how Fernando Alonso just lost the will to race in F1 after his horrific McLaren stint? Thankfully, the 2-year break was enough for the Spaniard to make a comeback with the same fighting spirit. Lewis Hamilton’s motivation has also come under observation as it seems to be going down with the 8th WDC remaining a myth with no serious step made toward it. Amid all this, an F1 journalist warns Lewis Hamilton of a threatening obstacle at Mercedes. What is this obstacle?
Ever since George Russell’s arrival at Mercedes, Lewis’s No.1 driver moniker has been at risk. The 25-year-old prodigy took the F1 world by shock when he beat the 7X champion during his first season at Mercedes. Nevertheless, with the new upgrades, Ralf Schumacher suggested that Lewis Hamilton seems to be faring better in the W14 than George Russell. But, Russell’s talent & ability should not be undermined.
Peter Windsor talked about Lewis Hamilton’s future as he questioned whether the Briton will keep his motivation high. As the F1 Journalist answered the question, he somewhat warned Hamilton of a threatening obstacle at Mercedes.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
According to Peter Windsor’s YouTube video, he said “At the level he [Lewis Hamilton] is, if Mercedes continue not to be winning races and George [Russell] is annoyingly a tenth quicker here or there periodically or more than periodically. I think that’s the big thing at Mercedes”
Regardless, Lewis Hamilton seems to be feeling well in the upgraded W14 with the George Russell scare perhaps not being an issue anymore. Let’s expand on what Ralf Schumacher said about the Lewis Hamilton and George Russell dynamic.
Ralf Schumacher on Lewis Hamilton adapting better to the upgraded Mercedes
It was clearly visible at the Spanish GP qualifying that George Russell wasn’t able to adapt as well to the newly upgraded W14 as Lewis Hamilton did. Hence, Russell got eliminated in Q2. Ralf Schumacher added that Lewis Hamilton seems to be flying once again having found the confidence in the car. With the 7X champ’s motivation through the roof, Russell will have to pull something special out of his bag.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
According to F1i.Autojournal.fr, Ralf Schumacher said, “Hamilton seems to adapt better to the new version of the W14 than Russell. He seemed relieved to feel again the pleasure of flying and the prospects for a more competitive horizon.”
“He is optimistic and has never been so motivated to go for this eighth title. Russell will have to raise his level of play because Lewis is probably better than ever at 38. George will face an interesting challenge, but this emulation can also pull the whole team up.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
It has been one of the closest teammate battles so far in 2023. If George Russell can repeat the feat of beating Lewis Hamilton again like last year, it would be quite a statement. Though, unless Mercedes gets a winning car, this battle may not boil over. Still, what do you make of Peter Windsor’s comments?
WATCH THIS STORY | Lewis Hamilton Gets Past Flashbacks Against George Russell at the 2023 Spanish GP