British hopeful George Russell joins Mercedes junior programme

40

Eighteen-year-old young British driver George Russell has been recruited by Mercedes-AMG Potronas to join the manufacturer's junior driver programme in 2017.

Russell, a recipent of the McLaren Autosport BRDC Award in 2014, finished third in last season European F3 series, with Mercedes-Benz powering him to a total of three pole positions, two wins, ten podium finishes and five fastest race laps along the way.

The rising star becomes the third member of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport Junior Programme, joining incumbents Pascal Wehrlein and Esteban Ocon.

"It's great to be part of the Junior Programme," beamed George.

"It is an incredibly opportunity to have the backing of the Formula 1 World Champions. I'm proud to have been given this kind of recognition for all the hard work that's gone into my career over the years so far."

Bottas one-year contract keeps Mercedes options open

Russell will compete this year in the GP3 series with ART Grand Prix on Formula 1 weekends.

"George has shown impressive form in the junior categories and we've been keeping a close eye on him for a while now," commented Toto Wolff.

"It's still early days in his career but we see great potential in him. George's next challenge in GP3 will provide a good test of his credentials for the future.

GALLERY: F1 drivers' wives and girlfriends

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

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.