Russell: "Everyone expects the wheels of the FW42 to fall off"

Any expectations for Williams are literally at rock bottom. According to rookie George Russell, this is only a good thing for the team as they look to bounce back from a terrible 2018.

“Everyone expects us to finish last with a gigantic gap until the next team. And as soon as we pit, people expect the wheels of the FW42 to fall off. Everything we do better than that is quite a feat for an outsider. That is why we are entering the season without any pressure on our shoulders," the Brit tells media in Melbourne.

“If you compare the current car with that of last season, it is already a significant improvement. The car drives a lot smoother so that the team can focus on finding more downforce. In 2018 the basis was already a lot less because the balance could not be found in any fields or roads. Last year was not easy for the team and I also know you can't fix something like that in one day. I am here for the long term, so know that every small step will be incredibly useful."

One question is whether Russell will be in the Williams cockpit next season. If he impresses, he may well get a promotion because of the Mercedes junior system. But, of course, the main question is whether Williams will manage to turn it around?