Former IndyCar driver James Hinchcliffe has questioned whether Kimi Antonelli has the characteristics to engage in a ruthless F1 title battle against team-mate George Russell.
The Mercedes duo have taken one victory apiece at the start of the new F1 era under fresh technical regulations.
It has been a positive start for the Brackley-based squad, who possess a clear advantage over the rest of the field.
Its margin to rival teams has already generated suggestions that this year's title battle will solely be against the two Mercedes entries.
Speaking on the F1 Nation podcast, former F1 driver Jolyon Palmer stated Russell has the “upper hand” in the title fight.
He added that he doesn't expect the Briton to “play nice” with Antonelli throughout the championship.
While Hinchliffe concurred with Palmer's assessment, he added: “It takes two to tango.
“I don't think at 19, still in his second year, still very much under the microscope... I'd be shocked if he believes that he can jump up there.
“I don't even know if he has it in him as a human, he seems like the nicest kid.
“I haven't seen some of those things that you saw in George in the junior formula.
“But even if it's there, in the situation that he's in, trying to attack George Russell within the team, it seems a bit risky.
“I just don't think he's got it in him.”
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