There will be a second rookie on the gird for next season, as George Russell will drive for the Williams Martini Racing team.

The Brit, who is almost nailed on to win the F2 Championship in Abu Dhabi, is part of the Mercedes young driver programme.

The 20-year-old has signed a “multi-year agreement” with the team, but will still remain linked to Mercedes.

“It is a huge honour to join a team of Williams’ prestige and heritage,” Russell said.

“I would like to thank Claire [Williams] and everyone at Williams for their faith in making this decision, as well as Toto [Wolff] and the team at Mercedes for their fantastic support throughout GP3 and Formula 2.