Russell: “Hamilton is a huge Threat”

George Russell believes Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari have become genuine contenders in the 2026 Formula 1 title race following the seven-time world champion’s victory at the Spanish Grand Prix. 

This is a development Russell believes could pose a threat to Mercedes’ dominance.

Hamilton secured his first win since joining Ferrari by taking the chequered flag in Barcelona, finishing ahead of Russell and ending a long wait for a race victory with the Italian team. 

The result also strengthened Ferrari’s position in both championships and prompted Russell to reassess the threat posed by his former teammate.

Speaking after the race, Russell described Hamilton as “a big threat” and warned that Ferrari are becoming an increasingly serious factor as the season progresses. 

“People were writing him off last year or even the year we were team-mates in ’24,” Russell said. “You know, ‘Is he too old? Is he this? Is he that?’ And then he goes, and he’s been smashing it for the last four or five races.”

He continued: “It just shows that you don’t forget how to drive overnight. You need yourself, your team, the set-up, the understanding of the tyres, everything just to click. And when it clicks, you fly.

“That’s where he is at the moment, and for sure he is a big threat. Ferrari are a huge threat.”

Hamilton’s win was Ferrari’s first Grand Prix victory since Mexico in 2024 and continued a run of results that has seen the team move closer to the leading group. 

After a difficult first season together in 2025, Hamilton and Ferrari appear to have found the right rhythm  under the current regulations.

Russell said the concern is not only Hamilton’s experience but also the progress Ferrari have made with the car. 

Having spent three seasons as Hamilton’s teammate at Mercedes, Russell knows better than most what the Briton can achieve when given competitive machinery.

The championship battle remains open, with Mercedes, Ferrari, and McLaren all looking to reduce the gap to championship leader Kimi Antonelli. 

Small performance gains have played a major role in the season so far, making development work and race execution increasingly important, and it is expected that other teams will find their form in the coming race.