Russell cites Hamilton's comeback as he eyes 2027 recovery

George Russell has pointed to Lewis Hamilton's resurgence in 2026 as evidence that he can bounce back from a difficult season in Formula 1. Russell took just two victories after winning the opening race and trails teammate Kimi Antonelli by 141 points, with Antonelli having sealed the Drivers' Championship with four rounds to go. Russell has acknowledged that Antonelli has adapted more seamlessly to the new cars for 2026.

Russell said that even the greatest athletes go through tough years, noting that Hamilton had difficult periods during their time as Mercedes teammates from 2022 to 2024. Hamilton has since been revitalised since moving to lighter, more nimble cars this year, and leads Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc by 12 points.

Russell has also admitted that the multitude of problems he has faced have taken their toll, saying he feels exhausted this season.