Williams to retain Russell and Latifi for 2021

©Williams

Williams has confirmed that George Russell and Nicholas Latifi will be remaining with the team for the 2021 F1 season.

Both young drivers are on multi-year deals with the Grove-based outfit, while the team itself is also in the middle of a strategic review that could lead to a change of ownership in the coming months.

But regardless of the outcome of the latter process, there will be no changes on the drivers' front.

Williams: Russell qualifying performance is team's 'vindication'

"I will be staying with Williams for 2021," Russell said in Thursday's FIA press conference at the Hungaroring.

"I signed a three-year deal with Williams, I’ll be staying there for 2021 to build off last year and hopefully what this year turns out to be."

The unsurprising news puts to rest speculation about Russell eventually joining Mercedes next year, although the 22-year-old will remain on the latter's radar for 2022.

"Claire [Williams] was very firm with her decision that she was not ready to let me go," Russell explained.

"Ultimately, as I have a contract with Williams, I have to respect that decision.

"I’ll be giving everything I’ve got for Williams for this year and into next year and let’s see what that holds after that."

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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.