No Mercedes for Russell in 2021: 'I don't lose my loyalty that fast'

After George Russell's strong performance at the Sakhir GP, there was speculation that Valtteri Bottas might be replaced next season. Toto Wolff however reaffirms the position of the Finn at Mercedes.

With just a few free practice sessions and a qualifying session under his belt, George Russell impressed last weekend in the race. After the references to Mercedes and Williams also disappeared from Bottas and Russell's social media pages, it looked like the young Briton could join Mercedes next year.

Toto Wolff is now however putting a stop to those rumours. "Valtteri is going to drive our car in 2021, I confirm that. We have a contract with him and he will be racing for us next year. You have to kick me hard in a sensitive area before I lose my loyalty," Wolff told the press in Abu Dhabi, including Crash.net.

One more year at Williams

"I am loyal to my two drivers in the same way that I am loyal to our junior drivers. George did a great job last weekend and he deserves to drive a fast car one day," continues Mercedes' team boss.

That day just won't arrive in 2021. "He has a contract with Williams for one more year and they have been very flexible and accommodating in lending George last weekend. Everything goes a certain way, but in a calm and structured way," concludes Wolff.