George Russell: Lewis Hamilton may have to call Mercedes bluff in contract negotiations

“George has a three-year contract with Williams, which will expire at the end of the year. Claire has made it clear that she sees George as an important aspect for the team and we have to respect the contract,” he said.

“Williams has given George the opportunity to get into Formula 1 and that’s why the decision lies with them

“And even if George was a free driver, he wouldn’t be guaranteed a spot at Mercedes. In the long run he is an important driver for us, but not for 2021.”

Hamilton still holds all the cards in negotiations with Mercedes regarding a new contract and Russell will almost certainly not be taking his set this year.