The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team announced yesterday that Lewis Hamilton and George Russell will continue to drive for the team over the next two seasons. The two drivers have been teammates since the beginning of last year and continue their long-standing relationships with the team.
Since joining the works team, Lewis has achieved 82 victories and 78 pole positions which has led to him becoming the most successful driver in the sport’s history. This two year extension will ensure the continuation of what has been the most successful team and driver pairing in Formula One history into what will be a remarkable 13th year and may even see him extend his historic relationship that has so far secured six World Drivers’ Championships and eight World Constructors’ Championships.
Commenting on the announcement, Lewis said:
“We dream everyday of being the best and we have dedicated the past decade together to achieving that goal. Being at the top does not happen overnight or over a short period of time, it takes commitment, hard work and dedication and it’s been an honour to earn our way into the history books with this incredible team.
“We have never been hungrier to win. We have learnt from every success but also every setback. We continue to chase our dreams, we continue to fight no matter the challenge and we will win again. I’m grateful to the team who have supported me both on and off the track. Our story isn’t finished, we are determined to achieve more together and we won’t stop until we do.”
George, on the other hand, started his relationship with the team in 2017 when he joined the team’s Junior programme, before rising up through the ranks to make it into Formula 1, getting his maiden Grand Prix victory in last year’s São Paulo Grand Prix. He commented:
“I have grown up with this team ever since joining as part of the Junior programme back in 2017. It’s my home and it feels fantastic to extend our special relationship through 2025.
“After stepping up to the Mercedes race seat last year, I wanted to reward the trust and belief that Toto and the rest of the team placed in me. Taking my first pole position and race win last year was an unforgettable feeling. More importantly though, it’s been great to work with everybody at Brackley and Brixworth to make progress with our car and push forward our development. Their loyalty, vision and hard work is inspiring.
“We have made some significant steps over the last 18 months and are only getting stronger as a team. I’m excited to help continue to build on that momentum as we progress into 2024 and 2025 as we continue to focus on returning to the very front of the pack.”
Toto Wolff, CEO and Team Principal, added:
“Continuing with our current driver line-up was a straightforward decision. We have the strongest pairing on the grid and both drivers are playing a crucial role in the team to move us forward. The strength and stability they provide will be key building blocks for our future success.”
Author Bio:
Simon Burrell is Editor of Our Man Behind The Wheel, a member of The Guild of Motoring Writers, professional photographer and former saloon car racing driver.
Photograph courtesy of Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team
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