George Russell vows to make the most of the “huge opportunity” that has come his way with Mercedes, but the Briton says he is under “no illusions” about the scale of the challenge he will face alongside Lewis Hamilton in the future.
Mercedes confirmed on Tuesday Russell’s anticipated move to the championship winning outfit from 2022 where the Briton will replace Alfa Romeo-bound Valtteri Bottas.
“I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t absolutely buzzing,” Russell commented. “It’s a huge opportunity and one I want to grab with both hands.
“But I’m under no illusions as to the scale of the challenge; it’s going to be a steep learning curve.
“Valtteri has set a high bar, consistently delivering week in and week out, scoring wins, pole positions and helping win multiple championship titles.
©Mercedes
“Of course, one of those new team-mates is in my opinion the greatest driver of all time.
“I’ve looked up to Lewis since I was in go-karts and the opportunity to learn from someone who has become a role model both on and off track can only benefit me as a driver, a professional, and a human being.”
Russell’s move to Mercedes is a huge career step for the 23-year-old, but the Briton admitted to feeling emotional about leaving his trusty Williams team behind.
“I’m excited and humbled to be joining Mercedes next year, but it also means I’ll be saying goodbye to my team-mates and friends at Williams,” he said.
“It has been an honour working alongside every member of the team, and an honour to represent the Williams name in F1.
©Williams
“Since I joined in 2019, we have worked tirelessly to push each other forward and bring the team back up the grid where it belongs.
“We’ve battled for every qualifying position, every point, and every tenth of a second. No matter how tough it’s been, nobody has ever given up, and that has inspired me every day.
“I’ve loved every moment in what I’d describe as a true heart and soul racing team, and I’ll be pushing harder than ever to make sure we end our story in the best possible way.”
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