Russell reveals plans for Mercedes switch

George Russell has revealed his plans for transitioning from Williams to Mercedes at the end of the current F1 season.

Briton Russell was announced to be Valtteri Bottas' replacement at the seven-time reigning F1 constructors' champions ahead of the Italian Grand Prix in September after almost two years of speculation linking him to the promotion.

In his time with Williams, Russell has helped to develop the team from a backmarker into one that can challenge with the lower end of the midfield, scoring 23 points this season to sit eighth in the constructors' standings.

Just four races remain this season before eyes turn towards the introduction of a radical new formula next year, with Russell laying out the situation for his switch to the Silver Arrows.

"With regards to how swiftly, it will be Monday morning after the Abu Dhabi race and I will be 120 per cent focused on all things Mercedes," he explained.

"I will be driving the test afterwards, back in the factory - I fly back straight from the test to the factory - do some simulator, meet some more people."

Highlighting the relationship he has enjoyed with Mercedes given his upbringing with the team, Russell added; "I am in a very fortunate position that I have spent so much time with Mercedes as a team from 2016 all the way through until 2018.

"Still whenever we see each other at the airports or at the tracks, I know them almost as well as I know everyone at Williams really.

"I am in a very fortunate position that I am going into a group and a family that I know so well."

Related

More F1 news

Latest F1 news

F1 president makes bold claim on German Grand Prix return: 'It will definitely happen'

• Yesterday 22:30

F1 star makes decision on Audi future as three key conditions revealed

• Yesterday 21:45

Max Verstappen exit clause is now active and it's a ticking timebomb for Red Bull

• Yesterday 20:57

Christian Horner made the wildest F1 prediction, turns out he was right

• Yesterday 19:45

Red Bull 'set to land' Gianpiero Lambiase replacement after Aston Martin exit

• Yesterday 18:45

Thieves target F1 star during summer break

• Yesterday 17:30