Russell excited about changes: 'It was clear'

The FIA decided this month not only to fire Michael Masi as race director, but also to set up a different structure. In doing so, the leadership will receive the help of a VAR-type system, among other things, which is the cause of much enthusiasm for George Russell.

The British driver was still under contract to Williams last season, where he mostly fought for the lesser points, if any at all. With the top teams esepcially, however, there was a big discussion about the qualities of Masi and the functioning of the race control. The FIA finally came to the conclusion that changes had to be made quickly.

With Eduardo Freitas and Niels Wittich it found two new race directors, but in addition it called a VAR-type system into being. This is an excellent decision by the FIA, Russell told AS-web.jp: "The VAR system I think is a fantastic solution," he reveals. "'It was clear that the race directors needed more help at their disposal."

Russell will start his first season with Mercedes next month. The driver is the replacement for Valtteri Bottas who left for Alfa Romeo this year. With Russell in its ranks, Mercedes hopes to have two drivers in house who can fight for the world title.