Russell in limbo as Williams refuse to confirm 2021 driver line-up amid Perez rumours

Williams F1

Russell in limbo as Williams refuse to confirm 2021 driver line-up amid Perez rumours

Both Russell and Nicholas Latifi have contracts for next year

Ian Parkes & Nicolas Quarles van Ufford

Friday 23 October 2020 15:33 Updated: 15:55

Williams acting team principal Simon Roberts has refused to confirm George Russell and Nicholas Latifi will be with the team in 2021 in the wake of rumours surrounding a possible swoop for Sergio Perez.

Latifi and Russell extended their contracts for next season in July prior to the Williams sale in August, but their futures appear to be in limbo amid suggestions new owners Dorilton Capital are seeking extra funding that could come with the likes of Perez.

Perez, who has significant financial backing from a number of sponsors, notably Telmex, was recently axed by Racing Point despite having a contract as the team - that becomes Aston Martin next season - signed Sebastian Vettel.

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Of the two drivers, Russell appears to be the most vulnerable despite his Mercedes backing as Latifi brings with him considerable sponsorship from Canada.

While Russell insisted he is not concerned by the circulating Perez rumours, Roberts has refused to nip the gossip about the Mexican in the bud.

When asked to confirm whether Russell and Latifi would be with the team next year, Roberts said: "We don’t want to say anything one way or the other. Nothing’s changed.

"There’s lots of speculation, there are lots of good drivers around that are now looking for seats. Dorilton bought the team and nothing changed, so we can’t say any more than that."

Roberts, who repeated Dorilton Capital has not influenced Williams' preferred line-up for 2021 since taking over, praised his current driving duo but continued his refusal to confirm either for next year.

"They’re both doing a great job but there’s so much speculation around, I don’t want to inadvertently fuel it," added Roberts. "Someone will take some nuance to whatever I say. We’re happy, let’s watch the rest of the market.

"I'm just not going to talk about it. Dorilton bought the team, nothing changed with regards to the drivers.

"There's just so much speculation and rumour, it's crazy. It's silly season after all. We're not saying any more than that."

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