Debate | Mercedes should be happy Hamilton is leaving after this season

Lewis Hamilton had a weekend with two faces in China: on the one hand, there was second place in Saturday's sprint race, but that fine result was followed by a dramatic qualifying session (18th) and a difficult Grand Prix (ninth). On days when everything falls his way, the vintage Hamilton is on display. But on days when the car is not perfect, the seven-time world champion cannot get anything extra out of the Mercedes. That is precisely what the German team needs. Hence the statement: 'Mercedes should be happy that Hamilton is leaving after this season'.

Also in Shanghai, Hamilton came on the board radio several times, to complain about all kinds of issues on and about his Mercedes. Especially a team that is currently in a very difficult phase, searching, would benefit more from a little less negativity from their main driver. George Russell faces the same challenges as Hamilton, but from his mouth publicly come far fewer complaints.

Moreover, Hamilton - who earns a huge salary at Mercedes - certainly does not deliver. Indeed, the car is anything but top notch. But neither does he manage to keep up with Russell. In every Grand Prix that both finished, Russell finished above his compatriot. Whether Hamilton might already have his head at Ferrari? He will never admit that. But in any case, the Hamilton of the moment does not seem to add value to Mercedes.

Vote on the statement and respond in the comment section

We would therefore like to submit the following statement to you: 'Mercedes should be happy that Hamilton is leaving after this season'. Vote in the poll and give your reaction - in polite terms - in the comments.