Russell predicts a "bright future" for Williams under Capito

Williams driver George Russell is confident the team has a "bright future" ahead of it under the leadership of new CEO Jost Capito.

Williams has finished bottom of the Formula 1 constructors' standings for the past three years but Russell is convinced with Capito at the helm the team is ready to climb the order.

Former Volkswagen director of motorsport Capito joined Williams before Christmas as part of new owner Dorilton Capital's continued restructuring of the team following its takeover in September.

Hailing Capito's arrival, Russell said: "Jost is a great guy, so experienced, motivated and a real breath of fresh air.

"I think the future of the team is looking really great."

Under Capito's leadership, Volkswagen claimed four consecutive manufacturers' and drivers' championships in the World Rally Championship between 2013-16.

After leaving Volkswagen, Capito then joined McLaren as CEO for a brief three-month period that ended in December 2016.

Referencing the recent record of Williams in F1, Russell made clear he does not expect the 62-year-old German to turn things around overnight.

"Unfortunately, in F1, things don't change that quickly but I think 2022 is a great opportunity for everybody," added Russell.

"We have great leadership, we have got the foundations being put in place, we have the financial backing and we can now really start to focus on performance.

"Unfortunately, in the latter stages of 2019 and 2020, it was all focused on keeping the team alive.

"It might be another tough year, let's see, but from 2022 onwards, there is a bright future ahead."

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