George Russell has been cautioned that his position at Mercedes isn’t secure, whereas Lewis Hamilton, who has been vocally critical of his vehicle, has signed with Ferrari.
Former F1 team principal Guenther Steiner has stirred controversy, implying that George Russell’s position at Mercedes may not be as safe as popular opinion holds, while Lewis Hamilton can voice criticism freely because of his assured transfer to Ferrari.
In February, Hamilton created a stir in the F1 world by revealing his decision to join Ferrari following this season. The seven-time champion has become more vocal about his challenges with the Mercedes W15 vehicle during the 2024 season.
His frustrations were exposed at the Brazilian Grand Prix, where he criticized the car as the “worst” he’s ever handled, comparing it to a “plank of wood.” Although facing a poor exit in Q1, Hamilton fought back to secure a point on race day, yet labeled the weekend as a “disaster” and criticized the car’s performance as “unacceptable”.
Hamilton expressed his frustration: “It’s heartbreaking to experience these poor performances in the latter half of the season.” However, what I can express is that we’re making an effort as we approach the weekends, but it is certainly unacceptable, and it is certainly insufficient.
Steiner, the former leader of the Haas team, thinks Hamilton’s openness comes from feeling secure in his Mercedes position, due to his agreement with Ferrari. Nonetheless, he cautions that Russell lacks the same level of security and needs to prove his ability to guide Mercedes moving forward, according to the Mirror.
Russell will stay with Mercedes for the next season, carrying on from 2022, although his contract concludes at the end of 2025. Steiner confidently asserted on the Red Flag podcast: “The car is what it is.” It’s not the top car; it’s currently the fourth best car on a favorable day. I believe that since Lewis is aware he’s leaving regardless, it makes it simpler for him to voice complaints.
“George is fully committed to doing everything necessary to demonstrate that he is the team’s future leader.” He needs to demonstrate that, since he is aware of when his Mercedes contract expires, his position is not completely secure, so he simply strives to perform at his best, dedicating himself fully. Additionally, Lewis is unhappy with the car and its handling, realizing that after three races, he is no longer in contention.
Former Mercedes star and world champion Nico Rosberg reflected Steiner’s views, having earlier warned Russell in September that his spot was “far from secure”. The speculation persists as rookie Kimi Antonelli is poised to partner with Russell next year, while interest around Mercedes chief Toto Wolff’s fascination with current leader Max Verstappen, a three-time victor with Red Bull, continues, raising more questions about Russell’s future.