https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/hamilton-ready-to-help-russell-become-next-british-f1-champion/6839719/
Distractors will still want to claim whatever.
But this is quite telling, even when he mentioned he wanted develop another British champion.
Why did Mercedes signed Hamilton, when they already had Rosberg? They wanted to upgrade their drivers after Schumacher. They realized while Rosberg is good, having the chance to sign Hamilton is literally the deal of the century.
Yes Rosberg did ended up winning one WDC, but it was more about luck than anything. Not that he is a bad driver.
Signing Bottas is just a necessity, they needed a supporting driver, Bottas fits the bill perfectly. There isn't a better available drive than Hamilton, and Bottas seems to be a good one that can delivers. He did.
With Russell coming of age, it's only natural for Mercedes to sign him, as their future. Max is signed with Red Bull long term, they also aren't getting Norris out of McLaren, Ferrari got Leclerc locked up. Who else is better than these 4? Especially when they have Hamilton under contract already. Hamilton won't last forever, Mercedes need to plan ahead, they are the only one without a 'future' driver.
Next year will be a very interesting season to watch, to see how Russell stack up against the best. can he beat the GOAT in the same car? Will he be faster than Max in a Red Bull? Norris in a Mclaren or Leclerc in a Ferrari?
Unlike others on the grid, Hamilton isn't really an 'I' player,, but a team player. There is no I from him when he is racing. watching him caring for Bottas and try to get him going against the competition is a telltale thing.
Funny how some wanted to brand Hamilton as a cry baby even when stuff doesn't even sticks. Like honestly, he never complained about stuff, and Alonso, Vettel before whines 10 times worse, and now even Max and Horner whine a boat load more than Hamilton ever did. heck Mazepin whines even more so.
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