Hamilton takes Mercedes in tow: 'His class is there for all to see'

Damon Hill is pleased with Lewis Hamilton's recent form. The seven-time world champion finished second in France and scored his fourth consecutive podium. According to Hill, he steps up as a true team leader of Mercedes.

Hamilton shared the podium in France for the first time with team-mate George Russell, who finished third. Hill praised both drivers, starting with Russell: "He did an amazing job at the weekend and managed to get on the podium," he said at Sky Sports F1.

Hamilton is a true team leader

While Hamilton started 2022 a little sluggishly, according to Hill, he now looks like a real team leader at Mercedes. "His class is there for all to see. He is able to read races and give him a competitive car then it will be tight between him and George."

"Lewis has stepped up to the role of mature and experienced guy who is bringing on George and the whole team. Red Bull have said Mercedes are catching up bit by bit," Hill continued. According to the 1996 world champion, the race pace is fine but the pace in qualifying needs work.

Hamilton for title number eight?

It is still an open question whether Hamilton will stay on with Mercedes. His contract expires after 2023, but an earlier retirement is possible. "It's all down to whether or not you feel there's hope, you feel there's a reason to keep going," Hill said. The Briton hopes Hamilton will fight for his eighth world title.