Mercedes has consistently avoided publicly backing a number one driver during the stints that Nico Rosberg, Valtteri Bottas and now Russell have had alongside Hamilton since 2013.
Although the seven-time champion will exit the Silver Arrows at the end of the season to move to Ferrari, long-time Mercedes driver Russell remains under contract until the end of 2025.
But regardless of whether Mercedes can lure Max Verstappen from Red Bull, sign either Fernando Alonso, or ousted Ferrari racer Carlos Sainz or opts to promote its F2 protege Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Russell believes the team will stick by its policy of equal treatment.
Asked if his approach inside the team had changed since finding out about Hamilton’s impending departure, Russell replied: “Since Lewis' news, Lewis has been incredibly professional with the team.
“The working relationship with everybody within Mercedes is like nothing has changed whatsoever.
“The team have been so great and given us both equal opportunities. It's always been that from the outset.
“Whenever upgrades come to the car, it's going to both of us at the same time, whereas other teams it goes to one before the other. And that's always the way at Mercedes.”
Source: Autosport