Despite massive speculation about George Russell replacing Valterri Bottas at Mercedes next season, the team haven’t given any conclusive answer about their 2022 lineup. Red Bull, however, have already made their intent to poach Russell in absence of a Mercedes deal quite clear. But the Briton has chosen to stay true to his roots, and has declared his allegiance to the Silver Arrows.
Russell: "Es imposible que vaya a Red Bull, soy leal a Mercedes" – https://t.co/VxF04tNeog #F1 pic.twitter.com/GNDWfZDTJB
— SoyMotor.com (@SoyMotor) July 27, 2021
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George Russell will stick to “Mercedes engine” in 2022
As reported by Soy Motor, Russell has clarified that he will stay with the Mercedes family. The team have stuck with him through highs and lows, and he plans to return the favor.
“I will drive a car with a Mercedes engine next year,” said George Russell. (Translated via Google Translate)
“I am a Mercedes boy and I am loyal. Mercedes is my car, it is my brand, so without a doubt, I will drive a Mercedes engine. It is impossible that I will go to Red Bull next year,” said Russell.
“As I say, I am a Mercedes driver. They have always been by my side my entire career and have given me many opportunities as a young driver. Of course, it is positive to receive interests from other teams, but my loyalty is exclusively for Mercedes,” he clarified.
Read More: Is George Russell a pay driver?
Is Russell ready for a Mercedes seat?
George Russell has been driving for Williams for the past three seasons. The British team has been the slowest team on the grid since 2019, but Russell has outperformed the car consistently and challenged for the points whenever possible.
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And when he was a chance to drive Mercedes at Sakhir Grand Prix in 2020, the British driver grabbed it with both hands. Right now, Russell is the frontrunner for the Mercedes seats to replace Bottas and he feels he is ready to jump to the German team.
“Absolutely, 100%. Every race I do, I feel more prepared. Now I feel ready and I trust myself and my abilities,” Russell concluded.
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Looking at the current form of Russell at Williams, Mercedes would benefit from promoting the young driver as he has started to hit the next level in Formula One.
Will George Russell join Mercedes for the 2022 season? let us know.