Seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton expressed his admiration for George Russell following the young Mercedes driver’s victory at the 2025 Singapore Grand Prix. Taking pole position and converting it into a dominant race win, Russell’s performance impressed the motorsport community, including Hamilton, who publicly acknowledged his former teammate’s achievement.
At the Singapore circuit, George Russell secured pole by nearly two-tenths of a second over Max Verstappen, setting the stage for a commanding race. Russell maintained a strong start and controlled the race pace comfortably, benefiting from a smooth pit stop to stay ahead. While Verstappen attempted a late charge on harder tires, traffic and pressure from Lando Norris hindered his pursuit, allowing Russell to claim a well-earned triumph.
George Russell Honors Lewis Hamilton’s Legacy with Victory Celebration
After securing the win, Russell shared a moment steeped in team history by recreating a memorable scene of Lewis Hamilton’s 2018 Singapore GP victory. Posting on Instagram, Russell replicated Hamilton’s celebrated image sitting on the start-finish line alongside his trophy. He recounted his experience from seven years prior, when he served as a Mercedes reserve driver and witnessed Hamilton’s dominant performance firsthand.
“Back in 2018 I was here with Mercedes watching Lewis take an insane pole and win. I remember seeing him take a very cool pic on the circuit after the win and of myself dreaming of being in F1. 7 years later, it’s a special moment for me to win here in Singapore and to celebrate the moment with my team.”
– George Russell
In response, Hamilton congratulated Russell and the entire Mercedes team by commenting on the post.
“Mega drive George, proud of you and the team! Keep up the great work.”
– Lewis Hamilton
Hamilton himself holds four Singapore GP victories, with his last at this circuit dating back to 2018. His history there adds added significance to Russell’s recent accomplishment.
Lewis Hamilton’s Race Struggles Hampers His Singapore GP Performance
Despite being a top contender, Hamilton faced challenges during the race that compromised his results. Opting for a unique two-stop strategy among the top 10 drivers and starting in sixth place, Hamilton lost a position to his teammate George Russell early on. His pace appeared promising while chasing Kimi Antonelli for fifth position, but trouble arose when his car’s brakes began to fail.
The brake issues caused Hamilton’s lap times to drop significantly, forcing him to manage the remainder of the race carefully. Still, due to a large gap ahead of Fernando Alonso in eighth, Hamilton was able to finish the race despite limping the car over the line in the closing laps. However, he was repeatedly noted for exceeding track limits after the brake failure.
These infractions resulted in a five-second penalty from the stewards, dropping Hamilton to eighth place, just narrowly ahead of Alonso.
Race Dynamics and Strategies Shaping the Singapore Grand Prix Outcome
The 2025 Singapore GP showcased a strategic battle, with Russell effectively managing tire performance and pit stops to maintain his lead. Verstappen’s attempt to challenge late in the race was disrupted by traffic conditions and defensive maneuvers from Norris, undermining his chances to overtake. This allowed the Mercedes driver to dominate from start to finish.
Russell’s precise driving and the team’s flawless execution highlighted Mercedes’ strength on the Singapore street circuit, underlining a potential resurgence for the constructors in the current season. Meanwhile, Hamilton’s difficulties exemplify the fine margins affecting outcomes in such a demanding race.
The Larger Significance of Russell’s Victory and Hamilton’s Enduring Influence
Russell’s triumph at Singapore not only represents a personal milestone but also connects deeply with Mercedes’ storied history, especially given Hamilton’s legacy there. The win reinforces Russell’s growing status within Formula 1 and Mercedes’ confidence in his talent as a future world title contender.
Hamilton’s open support conveys camaraderie and recognition of the team’s progress, signaling a blend of mentorship and competitiveness that fuels the team’s ambitions. For motorsport fans and followers, this race demonstrates the dynamic nature of F1, where emerging drivers build on the achievements of their predecessors while facing new technical challenges.
The events from Singapore underscore the intense preparation, split-second decisions, and resilience required at the pinnacle of racing, suggesting that the season will remain highly competitive as constructors and drivers vie for supremacy.
