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Russell temporarily moved to Mercedes as a replacement for Lewis Hamilton, who is absent from this tour due to his infection with the Coronavirus earlier this week.
Although Russell faces a great challenge adapting quickly to the new things around him, his old friend and former karting teammate Leclerc has high hopes for him.
“I expect at least a podium for him, but I have some hope that he will win. He may be very optimistic, but I know he is a very good driver. I know I can bet on him winning,” said Ferrari driver Mongaski.
Leclerc feels that even if Russell had only one involvement with Mercedes, that would be enough for him to show what he was capable of.
He said: “It’s a great opportunity. I’ve known George for many years, we were teammates with Alex (Albon) in 2011 in karting. Now he finally has a chance to lead one of the best teams.”
He continued: “I don’t know if it was a one-time entry or could participate at the end of a second week, but in any case, I think he will show his metal as a pilot during the end of this week.”
He continued: “Of course he showed that in the past, but now he has a chance to race up front, probably with the best car in the championship, and this is a great opportunity for him and I hope he does a good job.”
Leclerc is not the only driver hoping to do well this weekend as McLaren’s Lando Norris also believes his British compatriot can win.
“I think he can take first pole and also get a win,” he said. “But I think if there’s a weekend where Mercedes has less of an advantage than any other round, it’s probably here. So George will go into one of the toughest rounds for the team this way.” The season is based on the preference you will have over the rest, so it will not be an easy task. However, I know how good he is as a driver, and I trust everyone knows that too. I’m also sure Mercedes knows of course so I’m looking forward to great things. “
