Russell is expected to replace Valtteri Bottas at the world champions, while the Finn is tipped for a switch to Alfa Romeo. Russell is “an incredibly talented driver” and “one of the members of the future of the sport”, Hamilton said. Hamilton also said he expected their relationship would be “quite good”. But Hamilton said Mercedes were better equipped to deal with a rivalry between team-mates than they were when Rosberg was there. “We have learned a lot how we approach things,” Hamilton said. “The only highlight from last week was his qualifying lap – it was amazing,” Hamilton said. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen said he expected Russell would prove a tough challenge for Hamilton if he joined Mercedes. Hamilton said: “It’s not like I have anything to prove. Hamilton said he expected to be booed during the weekend.

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