© Steve Etherington for Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd.
Following rumours that George Russell could lose his Williams seat to Sergio Perez in 2021, Toto Wolff said the Briton’s future is Williams’ call.
Russell, a Mercedes junior driver, has been with Williams’ since 2019, when he made his Formula 1 debut. His contract was understood to be a three year deal, meaning he was guaranteed a seast until at least 2021.
However, recent F1 driver line-up shakeups resulted in Sergio Perez losing his Racing Point seat. Since Perez brings with him serious financial backing, there are rumours now that Williams’ new owners Dorilton Capital are considering signing the Mexican, which would leave Russel without a seat in 2021.
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff chimed in on the situation and said Mercedes will not interfere with Williams’ decision.
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“At the end, it’s Williams’ decision,” said the Austrian.
“We all know about George’s capabilities. He’s a star of the future, and remains unbeaten by his team-mates in Formula 1 [in qualifying].
“Sometimes he is able to show highlights in a car that is not competitive at the moment, and I think he’s a great team asset.
“But then obviously there is a financial reality that I cannot judge at all. It’s absolutely the discretion of the new owners and Simon [Roberts, Williams’ acting team principal] to decide what they want to do going forward.”
However Wolff confirmed Mercedes has been in contact with Williams regarding Russell’s future.
“Yeah, we touched base about George, but at the end, like I said, it’s their call.”
