Hamilton is F1's hardest worker, says Russell

George Russell says Lewis Hamilton is the most complete driver in Formula 1, saying the five-time world champion's work ethic often goes overlooked.

Williams rookie Russell has worked with Hamilton previously in his role as a Mercedes junior and has been mentioned as a potential long-term replacement for the reigning champion, having won junior titles in GP3 and Formula 2.

And Russell says his fellow Brit has already had an influence on his career, offering a guiding light as he looks to become a champion racer in the years to come.

Asked to name his perfect team-mate, Russell replied: "Lewis Hamilton. He's the most complete driver that I've ever, ever come across. Just with the details and everything, it's exceptional.

"He doesn't just rely on natural talent to be quick.

"He goes into every single detail to try and be better and better. He's one of the most hardworking people I think I've come across in the paddock which I think shocks a lot of people.

"There have definitely been a few little techniques that I saw him doing that I've tried to adopt to help me go faster, especially in a race distance, less so over one lap."

Russell suffered his first retirement in F1 in Singapore last time out, but hopes a quick turnaround in Russia this weekend can offer him the chance to hit back.

"It is a unique circuit, and off the back of what was a relatively promising weekend in Singapore, I am looking forward to seeing if we can bring a similar amount of performance in Russia," said Russell.

"I have good memories from Russia because that was when I found out I would be driving for Williams last year, and so I will always remember that."

Related

Lewis Hamilton

Hamilton offers MILLION DOLLAR reward over Mercedes investigation

• Yesterday 19:58

F1 Today

F1 News Today: Hamilton hints at F1 BREAK as FIA confirm Mercedes punishment

• Yesterday 16:08