Russell does not rule out transfer to Mercedes in 2021, but nuances statement

Since George Russell's strong Grand Prix debut for Mercedes, rumors have been spreading that he will get a contract there for 2021. If that's true, it would mean either Lewis Hamilton retires, or Valtteri Bottas has his contract ripped up.

George Russell stirred up the rumors himself by saying: "Hopefully I gave Toto Wolff a headache. Not just for 2022, but maybe sooner."

Russell doesn't rule out early switch to Mercedes

However, when asked about this comment at the press conference for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, he nuanced it and confirmed that he expects to stay with Williams in 2021.

"I didn't mean anything by that comment, I said it in the heat of the moment. In the end, I'll have a contract with Williams, and I'll drive for them in 2021," Russell said.

What's striking about this is that he doesn't completely rule out making the switch to Mercedes next year. Because of the partnership between Mercedes and Williams, it might be possible to bring Russell to Mercedes early.