Russell thinking about Mercedes yet: 'That's unprofessional'

For three seasons, George Russell competed with Williams in the back (and sometimes the middle) of the grid. His impending move to Mercedes to replace Valtteri Bottas is one to look forward to. Finally, the Brit can seriously start thinking about the world title.

Giving all energy

At least, you would think so. Russell himself is not at all concerned with Mercedes, he tells Motorsport.com. "Obviously, I get asked a lot of questions regarding the Mercedes move next year, but I think it is unprofessional if I start thinking ahead too quick or too early," Russell said when asked if he was already thinking about his Mercedes move. "I am giving as much effort into this season and the remaining races as I ever have."

This season, Russell was on the podium - somewhat luckily - in Belgium. On top of that, he and teammate Latifi picked up a few points here and there, giving them eighth place in the constructors' standings. In the coming weeks it will be a battle to hold on to that place, because thanks to two eighth places for Kimi Raikkonen Alfa Romeo has reduced the gap to 12 points.

Russell is combative

"I want to make sure that we seal this P8 in the championship but obviously Alfa picked up four more points now," Russell said, who himself finished outside the points in Mexico. "I don’t know what happened to Antonio [Giovinazzi] as they were both in the points at one point. So that is our goal now, to try to score some more points and try to stop them scoring points."