Mercedes not comparing Russell and Bottas in Abu Dhabi test

Mercedes is not looking to compare George Russell and Valtteri Bottas during the post-race test in Abu Dhabi this week, according to Toto Wolff.

Mercedes Formula 1 junior Russell will get a second run-out in the team’s 2019-spec car on Wednesday in Abu Dhabi, having previously driven the car at the in-season test in March.

Russell’s appearance comes off the back of an impressive debut season for Williams that saw him get linked to a move up to a full-time Mercedes seat in the near future.

But Mercedes chief Wolff saying there is nothing for the Briton to prove against Valtteri Bottas in this week’s running.

“I’ve said to George, who was not 100 percent [well] these last days, this test is not benchmarking him because we are absolutely certain he has the qualities of a potential future Mercedes driver,” Wolff said.

“He has the raw speed, he has the talent, he has the intelligence. There is a reason why he has won F3 and F2 as a rookie, and he has a flawless record in Formula 1.

“It is more about experience. There is nothing to prove during this upcoming test for us.

“George is under contract with Williams, and we will always honour that contract because they have given him the chance to step into Formula 1.

“So probably if he does the test, it will just confirm what we know.”

Russell struggled with illness in the build-up to the race in Abu Dhabi, but has featured for Williams on Tuesday at the Yas Marina Circuit, meaning he is set to take over from Bottas in the Mercedes W10 on Wednesday.

Additional reporting by Julianne Cerasoli.