After Losing Out on Nyck de Vries, Williams Set Its Sights on Recruiting ‘2nd George Russell’ to Leapfrog Their Competitors

We’re all aware of the ruthless nature of F1 drivers. However, the ruthless nature is something that is necessary not only in drivers but in the teams as well. The expectation from a second driver at Williams is a great example of the same. Especially now that Nyck de Vries isn’t an option.

Williams decided against extending the contract of Canadian drivers Nicholas Latifi beyond 2022. The team is looking to generate some competition within the team as they look for Latifi’s replacement. Latifi was arguably a step behind both his former and current teammates, George Russell and Alex Albon, respectively.

As Williams looks for a second diver, they want to change this dynamic. As per RaceFans, Williams’ head of vehicle performance, Dave Robson, outlined the team’s expectations from its new driver.

He said, “We need someone who will push Alex along and will be fighting with him every race.” 

“Ideally someone who is after similar traits from the car. We’ll see where we go. But all we want to do is have two competitive cars pushing each other into Q2, Q3, and beyond,” he added.

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When Nyck de Vries stepped in for Albon and finished in points at the Italian GP, Williams became starry-eyed. However, one of the most sought-after drivers in the paddock joined the Red Bull family instead, with AlphaTauri.

The silly season is far from over for Williams, and the team is hoping to get someone similar to their former driver.

After losing out on Nyck de Vries, Williams looking to hire second George Russell

There have been a lot of speculations regarding Williams’ second seat. Mick Schumacher is also on the list of candidates, the team’s principal has admitted. However, the team’s looking for someone on the same experience level as Albon and or Russell and Dave Robson’s comments incident exactly that.

“It was a shame to lose George and all of the input that he’d had, but Alex has jumped in. He’s got experience of what quick cars feel like, and he’s fitted in very well,” he said. 

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Williams is trying to create a formidable and competitive partnership. It will be interesting to see who they deem fit for the role. Junior driver Logan Sargeant is an option, although he must obtain the super license first.