“Sometimes frustrating but great journey” – Williams are increasingly prepared to see their star driver George Russell move to Mercedes to replace Valtteri Bottas.
Williams’ head of vehicle performance, Dave Robson, hailed George Russell’s contribution to the team. Speaking to Motorsport-Total, Robson seemed to hint Russell will eventually move to his parent team Mercedes, calling it a “big loss” when it happens.
Russell has overperformed for the struggling Williams, once a superpower of the sport alongside Ferrari and McLaren. The Briton is expected to replace Valtteri Bottas at Mercedes next season to partner compatriot Lewis Hamilton.
George Russell to Mercedes expected in 2022
Robson thanked Russell for his involvement in the “sometimes frustrating but great journey” with Williams. His brilliant performances in qualifying have earned him the title of “Mr. Saturday”.
“For me personally, I think he would be a big loss. He was fantastic to work with even when we first put him through the evaluation. It was obvious he had something about him, a really outstanding talent to drive the car.
“I think we’ve all put a lot of time and effort into helping him where he needed a bit of help to guide him and it would be a real shame to lose that, without really seeing the benefit of it in our car. It would be a massive loss, but it’s not necessarily something I have a huge influence on.
“He’s just got better and better and has developed almost with every race. Not so much in terms of driving, that’s always been very strong, but in terms of his understanding of the whole game we’re playing and everything we need to get right and what we need his help with. He’s just improved endlessly and his role in the team is special.”
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