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Mercedes drivers warned Lewis Hamilton will be ‘rubbing his hands’ after Barcelona clash

Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images
Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images
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George Russell and Kimi Antonelli have been cautioned that Lewis Hamilton will be ‘rubbing his hands’ following the Mercedes duo’s incident.

Hamilton’s win over the weekend came ahead of Russell and McLaren’s Lando Norris in second and third, respectively.

The seven-time world champion produced an outstanding drive, finishing more than 19 seconds clear of the field. While Hamilton celebrated, Antonelli had a frustrating day, retiring late on due to a mechanical issue.

Despite that setback, Antonelli remains 41 points clear of Hamilton in the title race, with Russell a further nine points back from the Briton.

Lewis Hamilton watches on as George Russell and Kimi Antonelli clash

Speaking on the BBC’s Chequered Flag podcast, Alice Powell stated that it is likely the two Mercedes will make contact again during the season, which could benefit Hamilton’s title fight.

She said: “We’ve seen it already this year, the two Mercedes making contact; I think we will see it again at some point. They got close to doing it today.

Antonelli damaged his front wing. I’m not sure; I didn’t see any contact, but there must have been because I don’t think it was damaged before he overtook George Russell.

“When it starts to get high, the tension is there. Obviously, Kimi Antonelli was gutted and hugely frustrated, as you would be. George Russell the same in Canada.

The British racing driver added: “But I think they will make contact again at some point, and Lewis Hamilton, I feel like, almost senses that. He’s been in battles with his teammates; he knows what it’s like. 

“Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton made contact 10 years ago in Barcelona; there are two hungry drivers, three including Lewis Hamilton.

“Particularly the Mercedes drivers when they are battling each other, I think they will trip over themselves at some point, and Lewis Hamilton will be rubbing his hands and say ‘Yeah, I’ll pick up the pieces’.”

Lewis Hamilton gives verdict on Ferrari title chances

Speaking after his first win with Ferrari, Hamilton acknowledged the strength of Mercedes this season but insisted he still sees a path forward for the Scuderia.

The 41-year-old emphasised that any serious title push would require full commitment from every part of the team.

Hamilton told Sky Sports: “I think it’s just the beginning. Mercedes have got an amazing package and they’re so strong. Both drivers are doing such an incredible job.

“It’s going to take absolutely everything from all of us in this team to overcome the deficit and to get to being ahead of them and doing this consistently. But nothing is impossible, so just one step at a time.”