George Russell has boldly declared that his "time will come" to become a Formula 1 world champion with Mercedes.
The 27-year-old Briton is brimming with confidence after outperforming Lewis Hamilton in two of their three seasons as teammates.
Now stepping into the team leader role following Hamilton's departure to Ferrari, Russell believes he has already proven his championship credentials.
"I know my time will come and I've just got to ensure that I keep on performing," Russell told the BBC.
George Russell insists he is ready to challenge for the World Championship
Reuters
Russell's record against the seven-time world champion speaks volumes about his potential.
He outscored Hamilton in both the 2022 and 2024 seasons, finishing 22 points ahead last year.
The statistics are particularly impressive in qualifying, where Russell dominated Hamilton with a remarkable 19-5 head-to-head record in 2024.
"The results speak for themselves and I don't have anything I need to prove or show," Russell stated confidently.
He joins an exclusive club as only the third driver to outscore Hamilton as his teammate.
Russell takes particular pride in his achievements against a driver widely considered the greatest of all time.
"I am proud of the results I've achieved going up against somebody like Lewis," he said.
"If this was a different time or a different era, if you finish ahead of Lewis Hamilton, you're a champion."
George Russell is now the main man at Mercedes
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The British driver's confidence is well-founded, having joined Jenson Button and Nico Rosberg as the only teammates to outscore Hamilton over a full season.
Russell now finds himself as Mercedes' main man, partnered with 18-year-old Italian Andrea Kimi Antonelli for 2025.
The Silver Arrows have high hopes for the young talent, believing he could become the sport's next superstar.
"He's a great kid - very young, but he's a really nice guy. Super-fast, of course," Russell said of Antonelli.
Lewis Hamilton left Mercedes for Ferrari this year
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"Being thrown in at the deep end, which is going to be a big challenge. But in terms of raw speed, I don't think you can question it."
Mercedes are eyeing the 2026 rule changes as an opportunity to return to championship-winning form, with Russell patiently waiting for his moment.
"Whether it's this year or next year, it'll come," he said confidently.
Russell firmly believes his performances against Hamilton have proven his championship potential.
