Williams: Signing Russell one of the best decisions in years

The faith shown in youth through the signing of George Russell is one of the best decisions Williams has taken in recent years, according to deputy team chief Claire Williams.

Williams signed Russell for the 2019 season off the back of his Formula 2 title win, partnering Robert Kubica.

Russell outqualified Kubica for all 21 races of the year and won praise throughout the paddock for his performances at the back of the grid, leading Williams through a difficult season.

Russell will be leading Williams through 2020 alongside rookie teammate Nicholas Latifi, but deputy team chief Claire Williams has no qualms about running a line-up, using the decision for 2019 as proof.

“We know that George has talent, and it hasn’t been in any way a detriment to us putting George in as a rookie this year,” Williams said.

“In fact, it’s been probably one of the best decisions that we’ve made over a handful of years.

“I don’t think it is a distraction in any way that we have two younger drivers in the car, because we know what they’re both capable of.”

Williams has finished last in the constructors’ championship in each of the last two seasons, and scored just one point through the 2019 campaign.

For Claire Williams, this results in a greater onus being placed on factors outside of the car, such as how the drivers can work with the team and together.

“When you are a team that isn’t necessarily doing so well, you have to consider the personalities of the drivers a whole lot more than maybe you would otherwise,” Williams said.

“George and Nicholas have the type of personalities that we’re looking for, that truly understand the importance of playing their role in the development of the team and motivating the team and inspiring the team.

“I think we’re very lucky that we’ve got two drivers that can do that. It’s always the case that with a rookie, which Nicholas will be next year, it’s going to take him a couple of races to get his head around things.

“But we know that he’s a quick study, and that he’s going to be there pretty quickly.”