Russell puts Monaco house move on hold

Russell will relocate to the Principality - but not yet

Will Gray

Friday 28 May 2021 17:06

Mercedes protégé George Russell has put his plans to move to Monaco on hold until later this season so he can focus on performing on track and securing a switch to the reigning world champion team for 2022.

Russell, who currently rents a flat in London, revealed earlier this year that he plans to join the host of other drivers living in the Principality after spending much of last year’s lockdown at his parents’ house in the countryside.

The Williams driver revealed he would be “checking out some places” after the recent Monaco race but added: “I’ll probably postpone until later in the season just while the Covid cases and logistical issues are still around.

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“It just makes it a bit difficult and I just want to focus on the racing. Here and now is a very important couple of months for a lot of drivers when contract talks are coming up for 2022.”

Will Russell join Mercedes?

Paddock rumours have long linked Russell to Mercedes after he impressed the team with his performance on and off the track when he stepped in for the Covid-hit Lewis Hamilton in Sakhir last year.

The British driver is seen as one of the sport’s top future talents but is currently having to remain patient and prove his worth with struggling Williams.

Russell has said an upheaval at this point could upset his rhythm. He added: “Just having that stability for myself back at home is important so I can give it absolutely everything I’ve got on the racing.”