© Steve Etherington for Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd.
With rumours that Williams could replace George Russell in 2021 swirling around, Toto Wolff says Mercedes has a plan for the Briton’s future.
The rumour going around is that Sergio Perez might find his way to Williams in 2021. This would leave George Russell, who has a contract with the team until the end of 2021, without a seat.
As George Russell is a Mercedes junior driver, and the German manufacturer is supplying engines to Williams, naturally this could cause a problem. Team boss Toto Wolff says that, while Mercedes would not be happy if Russell is replaced, Williams would not be penalized.
“Williams’ new owners want to bring the team forward,” the Austrian told Auto, Motor und Sport.
“This is only possible with good drivers. I would keep Russell in their place.
If you like SilverArrows.Net, consider supporting us by buying us a coffee!
“[If Russell is replaced] we would not be happy, but it would not harm our relationship with Williams. The engine contract is not tied to Russell. It is a separate agreement.
“We have a contract with Williams until 2025, and Mercedes is known to respect contracts. And we respect Williams’ independence. They have to make the decisions that are best for their team.”
However, Wolff confirms Mercedes has a plan in place for Russell.
“Then we’ll have a sensational reserve driver in George and give him as many testing opportunities as possible to prepare him for 2022 and beyond,” concluded the Mercedes’ team boss.
