Ralf Schumacher backs Russell to put instant pressure on Hamilton from the get-go

Ralf Schumacher has tipped George Russell to be an immediate thorn in Lewis Hamilton's side at Mercedes this season.

Russell and Hamilton made their first public appearance as Mercedes teammates at last week's launch of the W13 car, followed by a Silverstone shakedown, with relations between the two appearing respectful but not overly friendly.

Many expect the ambitious 24-year-old Russell to be much more eager to be a star in his own right at Mercedes than Valtteri Bottas, who seemed all too content to play second fiddle to the seven-time world champion.

Schumacher reckoned both drivers seemed careful not to step on each other's toes at the launch, but he also wondered how long it would last.

What's more, he thinks Hamilton may have found a genuine rival for the Mercedes throne in his new teammate.

"I thought it was interesting how gentle the two drivers, Lewis Hamilton and George Russell, were with each other [at the launch]," Schumacher said according to Speedweek.

‘Goosebumps.’ ?? Debriefing George’s first day with the W13. ?? pic.twitter.com/Q1yPOPt6b4

"The young Russell was cautious with his comments and emphasised he wants to learn a lot now.

"The tone was quite different when George replaced Lewis in Bahrain 2020 (Sakhir Grand Prix when Hamilton had COVID) and drove alongside Valtteri Bottas. But I'm convinced that internally it looks different, and I already believe he can beat Lewis from the start."

"I think Mercedes have a super line-up now," added the former Williams driver, who now does commentary on F1 for Sky Germany.

"There was always a push from us on Sky to change something there. I never quite understood why it took so long to replace Valtteri Bottas.

"I think George Russell is an exceptional talent. Whether he