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Williams’ George Russell gives his first comments on replacing Lewis Hamilton and driving for the Mercedes at the Sakhir Grand Prix.
After it was announced that Lewis Hamilton will be unable to race at the Sakhir Grand Prix due to testing positive for COVID-19, many were hoping to be called to fill in for him at the best team on the grid. In the end Mercedes chose to lend their junior driver George Russell from Williams.
“Firstly, I want to say a huge thank you to everybody at Williams for giving me this opportunity,” said the young Briton.
“I might be wearing a different race suit this weekend, but I’m a Williams driver and I’ll be cheering my team on every step of the way.
“I see this as a great chance to learn from the best outfit on the grid right now and to come back as an improved driver, with even more energy and experience to help push Williams further up the grid.”
Russell who is a big favourite to get a full-time Mercedes drive after either Lewis Hamilton or Valtteri Bottas leave the team, now has the best opportunity in his career to prove himself.
“A big thank you also to Mercedes for putting their faith in me,” continued Russell.
“Obviously, nobody can replace Lewis, but I’ll give my all for the team in his absence from the moment I step in the car. Most importantly, I wish him a speedy recovery.
“I’m really looking forward to the opportunity and can’t wait to get out on track this week.”
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Nobody knows yet if Lewis will be able to participate in the final race of the season, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, so it is possible that George will drive in both races.
Williams’ Acting Team Principal Simon Roberts is happy to let George get this opportunity, but confirms Russell remains a Williams driver.
“Our long-term partnership and George’s affiliation with Mercedes is no secret, and so I’m delighted George has this unique opportunity to join Mercedes, the current Constructors’ Champions,” said Roberts.
“We have been working hard to ensure that an agreement could be made with Mercedes to allow him this fantastic opportunity.
“George very much remains a Williams driver and we look forward to him returning to us fresh from this experience and wish him a successful race this weekend.”
Williams’ reserve driver Jack Aitken will replace Russell for the Sakhir Grand Prix.
Source: Williams Racing
