“Speculation being fed by Perez camp” – George Russell alleges Sergio Perez to Williams speculation baseless, confident of staying at Williams.
“Nothing’s changed” – That’s the view of Williams driver George Russell, who is currently battling those Sergio Perez to Williams rumours. The rumors have picked up steam in the last few days, with Sergio Perez up for grabs after Racing Point/Aston Martin decided to release him after this season.
But the young driver is unfazed, focusing on the job at hand for Williams. He also expressed confidence that Mercedes and Toto Wolff “have my back”, should Williams bring in Perez. Russell also alleged that speculation is the doing of the Mexican camp. As per him, Sergio Perez wants to broker a deal with Red Bull, in case they decide to release Alex Albon.
“I try and do my talking on the track and, as I said before, I am not concerned for next year. I know Mercedes and Toto have my back, Toto himself has told me that, which I absolutely trust. And I think all of this speculation has probably been fed by the Perez camp, who are trying to apply pressure on other teams, potentially a Red Bull seat – so that’s my view on it.”
“I have a contract, I have nothing to worry about and I’m just here to concentrate on my work.”
Toto Wolff has a solution if Williams axe Russell
Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff also spoke on the Sergio Perez to Williams rumors, calling it Williams’ decision altogether. He however added that he would keep Russell had he been in Simon Roberts’ place. If not, then Russell will spend the 2021 season as a reserve driver to Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas.
“Williams’ new owners want to bring the team forward. This is only possible with good drivers. I would keep Russell in their place. 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.”
