Lewis Hamilton has been the benchmark for Formula 1 drivers ever since his rookie season in 2007. That being said, irrespective of what he’s achieved, there always comes a time in a legend’s life when he passes the baton to someone else. But as things stand, for the 7x Champion, George Russell isn’t that man, and now isn’t the time.

George Russell scored a breakthrough season with the Silver Arrows, where he not only took his maiden F1 win but also beat Hamilton over the course of the season. But all said and done, Lewis Hamilton knows his worth. According to the Brit, 2022 will not bring discord within the team, as his position on Russell’s imminent threat to his crown is just noise.

While speaking to Motorsport-Total.com, he explained, “I’m quite experienced and I’ve been in this team for so long that I can handle this type of challenges. It won’t be a problem. He was the perfect reinforcement for our team and brought a lot of positive energy. We communicate well with each other on equal terms and have a lot of mutual respect.” [translated via Google Translate]

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The Hamilton v. Russell debate was also put forth to Red Bull team boss Christian Horner. Who do you think he backed to come out stronger in 2023?

Red Bull boss Christian Horner weighs in on the Lewis Hamilton vs. George Russell debate

George Russell drove a stellar season for the Silver Arrows in 2022. His exploits on the track meant that in his very first season against the 7x Champion in comparable machinery, he outdid the man over the course of the season. But Horner has warned that this stat means nothing in terms of the bigger picture.

The man in charge of the Milton-Keynes-based outfit said, “I think both those guys have had great seasons. I think George finishing ahead of Lewis in his first year in the team was an impressive performance but Lewis is obviously still right there.”

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A single season cannot define how Hamilton’s remaining years in F1 will pan out. That being said, is this really the beginning of the end for Lewis Hamilton?