George Russell believes knowing his place on the 2020 Formula 1 grid is assured has allowed him to place a greater focus on improving himself and Williams’ plight.
Long-term Mercedes protégé Russell stepped up to Formula 1 this season off the back of successive titles in feeder categories GP3 and Formula 2.
Russell did so on a multi-year deal with Williams, meaning he will continue to race for the team in 2020, unless he is recalled by Mercedes, a situation which is deemed highly unlikely.
“I think what is really great is that I know one way or another, my future is secure, and I can just purely focus on the job at hand,” said Russell.
“I know previous drivers and their previous experiences have been contract negotiating during race weekends, just before qualifying, talking about contracts, and what have you.
“In Mercedes, I’ve got a great management company who… their job is to make my life as easy as possible and to give me the chance just to focus on the job. That’s good.”
Mercedes is deliberating on whether to retain Valtteri Bottas or promote reserve driver and ex-Manor/Force India racer Esteban Ocon to partner Lewis Hamilton in 2020.
Russell, though, has asserted that he would feel ready if such an opportunity did present itself as early as next year.
“[Daniil] Kvyat beat [Daniel] Ricciardo in his first year at Red Bull,” he said. “[Max] Verstappen won in his first race with Red Bull. Charles [Leclerc] is giving [Sebastian] Vettel a run for his money in his first year.
“I obviously really and truly believe in myself. If I ever were to get that opportunity, it would be stupid to think I could go in there and beat Lewis at the first race, that’s just… In my opinion he’s the best driver on the grid.
“I feel like the potential is there. You always learn with every single race, every single year with the experience.
“Like I said, if the opportunity were to come, I’d feel absolutely confident I could take it with both hands, and quickly learn as much as possible and be there ready to really deliver after a couple of races.”
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