George Russell joined Mercedes just last year and has become an integral part of the team ever since. When Lewis Hamilton was struggling during the first half of the season, the former Williams man delivered a big chunk of points for the team. However, time and again, the junior Briton driver has highlighted how much Hamilton’s influence worked for him. Now, as rumors over the champion driver’s possible move to Ferrari pick up, Russell brutally disrespected him.

Given his superior racing prowess, it is not an easy feat to beat Hamilton on points in the same car. Only three men in his 16-year-long career have done it. Jenson Button did it in 2010. Nico Rosberg lifted the champion’s trophy and retired immediately in 2016. Since then, he enjoyed an undisputed run at Mercedes with Valtteri Bottas as his partner for 5 years. Russell ended that run in his very first season together with Hamilton.

George Russell fires a warning shot at Lewis Hamilton as rumors of Ferrari move intensify

Hamilton is currently in his final year of contract with Mercedes. Rumor has it that the Stevenage man is looking for a switch to Ferrari. Earlier this week reports even suggested that the Maranello team had already offered him a $49 million deal. Following that, the entire issue has become the talk of the town. Russell clearly did not take well to the development.

The Mail quoted Russell as saying, “I don’t care at all whether Lewis stays or Lewis goes because I believe I can beat anyone on the grid.”

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However, he did admit that fighting against Hamilton in the same machine gave him immense confidence. “You couldn’t choose to be in a better position than to go up against Lewis,” he added. “What a way to test myself. While we’re in this position, he is invaluable to me. There can be no excuses on either side. He’s pushing me. I’m pushing him. I am here to beat everybody.”

“I never had any self-doubt, and having these 15 months alongside him has reinforced that. My confidence has grown.”

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Recently, Toto Wolff gave an update on the contract renewal negotiations with Hamilton. He admitted that it was a difficult thing for him to do every time they reach this stage.

Hamilton addresses the Ferrari rumors and gives an update on contract negotiations with Mercedes

The reason why Wolff found it difficult to negotiate with Hamilton was because of their friendship. Toto said that he wasn’t comfortable discussing money matters with Lewis. That is where, he believes, Lewis’ manager, Penni Thow’s role becomes crucial.

Speaking on the Ferrari rumors and Mercedes contract negotiations, Hamilton told, “Naturally, when you are in contract negotiations, there will always be speculation, and ultimately unless you hear it from me, then that’s what it is.”

“My team is working closely behind the scenes with Toto [Wolff], and we are almost at the end of having the contract ready.”

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Until the official announcement of contract finalization comes out, rumors will continue to run amok. Do you think Ferrari can really poach the Mercedes legend?