Mercedes driver George Russell has brushed aside the media attention surrounding his teammate Lewis Hamilton’s future at the team, claiming he “doesn’t care” what the Brit chooses to do.
Hamilton’s contract is due to expire at the end of the 2023 season and there is currently no deal or sign of an extension at Mercedes in sight.
Having been at the team since 2013, Hamilton and Mercedes have enjoyed a successful partnerships but it’s not clear whether the Brit has become disillusioned with the Silver Arrows amid a string of poor performances.
Russell teamed up with Hamilton last season after he stepped up from Williams to replace Valtteri Bottas, who joined Alfa Romeo.
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With Russell seen as the future of Mercedes and, potentially, Formula 1 if he can get a competitive car, the Brit doesn’t appear concerned who he races alongside next year.
“I don’t care at all whether Lewis stays or Lewis goes, because I believe I can beat anyone on the grid,” Russell told reporters ahead of Monaco.
Hamilton has kept his cards close to his chest in recent weeks, with conflicting reports claiming he will remain at Mercedes and others stating that Ferrari have approached him with a formal offer.
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What seems clear is that Hamilton will be on the grid next season, as the Brit remains set on fighting for an eighth world title, breaking the record held by Formula 1 icon Michael Schumacher.
Hamilton had been on course to achieve that feat before the events of Abu Dhabi 2021 unfurled, leaving Max Verstappen with his first world championship.
The future of the seven-time world champion could hinge on the upgrade package rolled out by Mercedes at the Monaco Grand Prix, as the Brit looks for reassurance that his old team will be able to rise up again.