George Russell taking Lewis Hamilton seat at Mercedes was contract

Brundle added: “Along with his safety-car crash in Imola, young George has taken some body blows this year, but overall it was a very significant weekend for him, and he appears to have sufficient confidence and self-belief to weather it all.”

A decision is yet to be made on whether Hamilton will return for the final race of the season in Abu Dhabi.

But Hamilton has since revealed he’s feeling healthy and wants to return this weekend.

“I woke up today feeling great, so I just wanted to send you guys a message of positivity and letting you all know that I’m okay,” he said.

“Thank you to every one of you that sent me the amazing messages and videos. I really, really appreciate it. I hope that wherever you are, you’re staying positive and fighting through whatever you’re facing right now.”