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Lewis Hamilton 'would have preferred Valtteri Bottas to stay' as his Mercedes partner, according to Sky Sports' Ted Kravitz. The 37-year-old is poised to race alongside George Russell in the wake of Bottas' decision to join Alfa Romeo. But Kravitz thinks he'd have preferred to be racing alongside his old partner instead.

Russell has returned to Mercedes this year after Bottas' departure.

Many are expecting the former Williams star to take F1 by storm, with some even believing the 24-year-old can compete for the title at the first time of asking.

Hamilton has spoken glowingly of Russell ahead of the new season, which is due to get underway on March 20.

But Kravitz thinks the 37-year-old would prefer to be racing alongside Bottas instead.

"He will push Hamilton but when he's told to by the team, he will also submit as a second