“He’s very much liked by the team” – Williams team principal Jost Capito also believes Nicholas Latifi is ready to be the team leader once George Russell leaves for Mercedes.
Unlike football, Formula 1 is having a quiet silly season, with no big move for next season announced yet. Instead, there have been a couple of contracts extensions to report – Fernando Alonso at Alpine and Sergio Perez at Red Bull.
Added to this list is set to be Williams driver Nicholas Latifi, going by the words of team boss Jost Capito. He also agreed with Latifi’s view that the latter is ready to lead the team once the imminent signing of George Russell by Mercedes.
“Yes, it looks like, I would say [Latifi signing contract extension]. I agree with him [about being a team leader]. Maybe not yet, but he’s improving race by race, and I’m sure by the end of the season, he’s ready to do that.
“Especially his personality is in the right spot to lead the team. He works very well with the engineers, he’s very motivational, he’s very clear in his direction where he wants a car to develop, and he’s very much liked by the team. And he’s demanding.
“Also, he learned a lot with George as they work together. They spend a lot of time together on and off the track. So it’s a fantastic relationship, and I’m sure by end of the season he will be in that position that he can lead the team.”
