Williams believe that new driver Sergey Sirotkin can be a surprise package in the 2018 Formula One season.

Sirotkin pipped Robert Kubica to the role of Lance Stroll’s team-mate for the upcoming campaign after the retirement of Felipe Massa.

The Russian impressed in the end of season testing in Abu Dhabi last year, yet his appointment came as something of a shock, amidst speculation that his signing brought in $15million of extra sponsorship.

However, Williams’ deputy team principal Claire Williams said: “I think he’s going to surprise a lot of people this year. His technical capability combined with his track ability is really impressive.