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Russell 'almost certain' to test Williams at Abu Dhabi

Williams technical director Paddy Lowe says new recruit George Russell will "almost certainly" get his first run with the team at F1's post-season test at Abu Dhabi.

The current leader of the FIA Formula 2 Championship, who is also a Mercedes protégé, secured a multi-year deal with Williams last month and has been embedded with the British outfit since the Mexican Grand Prix as he prepares for the 2019 season.

Russell sees 'massive opportunity' for Williams in 2019

Lowe was asked how the young charger had settled in with Williams so far.

"Very well, yeah. He's done the last two races with us," said the British engineer.

"He is very enthusiastic, he is learning a lot already and I think it will allow him to hit the ground in better conditions than otherwise.

"We haven't announced our line-up for the Abu Dhabi test, but almost certainly George will feature in that.

"Having done these two races he is in much better position to get the most out of his first sessions in the car."

Williams still has a seat to fill alongside Russell for next season, with reserve driver Robert Kubica reportedly been offered the drive.

However, incumbent Sergey Sirotkin could retain his ride as funding appears to be a necessity for Williams.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.