Williams owners not writing off new season despite 2022 rule changes - George Russell

Williams

Williams owners not writing off new season despite 2022 rule changes - Russell

Briton claims team will push development to build on momentum generated last year

Ian Parkes & Ewan Gale

Tuesday 19 January 2021 09:29

Williams driver George Russell claims owners Dorilton Capital will not turn a blind eye to this season's development despite the new regulations coming into force for 2022.

Russell's stellar qualifying performances last year, coupled with multiple near-misses for points for both himself and team-mate Nicholas Latifi, outlined the improvements made by the team compared to the dismal 2019 season.

With Dorilton taking over from the Williams family, many remain optimistic an injection of funds will help promote the team back up the order.

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To that end, Russell has ruled out the prospect of the upcoming season being dismissed altogether given the progress that was made last term.

"We are making strides, all the team," Russell told GPFans Global. "We are one of the teams that are improving the most.

"Hopefully, with the investment from Dorilton, they are not just suddenly casting an eye towards 2022 with all focus there, they are looking for this year, they still want to get a result because everyone in the factory needs it.

"We work so hard, we are getting closer and closer and closer, it would be a shame to leave it aside next season.

"Definitely, our rivals are putting everything into 2022 which would definitely give us some opportunity."

Sir Frank and Claire Williams vacated their roles at the family team after the Italian Grand Prix last year to allow Dorilton to takeover. Sir Frank had been at the helm since the team's inception in F1 in 1977.

Expressing his gratitude towards Dorilton for the continuation of the Williams family legacy since taking over, Russell added: "With the Willaims family leaving, it was emotional.

"They have been a massive part of the sport, their relationship with myself, the whole team. Everybody was so fond of Frank and Claire.

"But while the family fairytale came to an end, the legacy continues and we are all grateful and thankful to Dorilton for that."