Former Formula 1 team owner Eddie Jordan has raised doubts about George Russell’s suitability to lead Mercedes after Lewis Hamilton’s departure for Ferrari in 2024. Russell joined Mercedes in 2022 and had an impressive season, outscoring his teammate by 275 points to 240. However, he struggled in the previous season, trailing Hamilton by 59 points. Jordan believes that Russell’s presence will not compensate for the loss of Hamilton and suggests that Mercedes should consider bringing Sebastian Vettel out of retirement. He also acknowledges that Russell was able to perform well when Hamilton faced car issues, but as the season progressed, Hamilton regained his form and proved that he still had what it takes to compete at a high level. This change in fortune is believed to be one of the reasons why Hamilton decided to move to Ferrari.
Jordan’s remarks come after Wolff stated that the conversation surrounding Hamilton’s upcoming departure had led to a decrease in recognition of Russell’s qualifications.
“Furthermore, it is crucial to note that amidst the discussions about Lewis, George has not received the attention he deserves,” he expressed.
“Having George in the driver’s seat is advantageous for the team. He has been competing on an equal footing with Lewis for the past two seasons. There was virtually no difference between them, and knowing that we have a driver of that caliber makes the decision for the second seat much easier.”
When it comes to determining who will partner Russell at Mercedes in the following season, Wolff confessed that all possibilities are being considered, ranging from an established name to an emerging talent.
“I have not yet had in-depth discussions with the team regarding our preferred direction,” he added. “We are open to both rookies and highly experienced drivers because I am uncertain about what would be best for any potential driver joining us or for the team’s future.
“Allow me to say that if you had told me two days ago that Lewis would be joining Ferrari, I would not have believed it was possible. Situations and circumstances can change rapidly.
“Contracts are only as reliable as the driver or team’s desire to compete, and who knows what unexpected developments or opportunities may arise in the driver market for us.”
One potential option that has been suggested is Mercedes Junior Team driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who has bypassed a step in the single-seater hierarchy to make his Formula 2 debut.
Nevertheless, Wolff has advised against setting high expectations for the 17-year-old potentially moving up to the top level as early as next year in a factory Mercedes car.
“Kimi has been a part of the Mercedes family since he was 11. He has progressed through the junior program, and his career has been highly successful,” he acknowledged.
“At this stage, I believe it is most important for him to focus on F2. If we start to speculate or spread rumors, it will not benefit his F2 campaign.
“He transitioned from karting just a few years ago. He is not even 18 years old. I would prefer not to initiate any speculation about Kimi entering F1 at this point.”
According to the Source motorsportweek.com