Alonso’s praise for Russell is “hell of lots”

Russell has been regularly impressed since entering the F1 with Williams in 2019, never losing a qualifying head-to-head against a 34 Grand Prix teammate.

This has led to a comparison between former Russell and two-time F1 World Champion Alonso during the early part of his career in the 2001 backmark Minardi team.

In an interview with Sky Sports Before returning to his F1 in 2021, Alonso was asked which young drivers currently have the highest rating for racing in the F1.

“They all came with very good preparation as well as driver academies that build performance and talent, help them from a very young age, and now they’re doing their job,” Alonso said.

“Of all of them, George Russell is the one who makes me wonder every week how Williams is running. [with] Zero errors. I am really surprised about its natural speed.

“So if I have to say one name, Russell is my choice for the future.”

Russell put up another impressive performance to qualify at Emola on Saturday, reaching Q2 for the eighth time this season on the grid on the 13th.

The Mercedes-backed junior said he has heard Alonso’s kind words, and is appreciative.

“This means a lot of hell for me, to come from someone like Fernando,” Russell said. “I’m looking forward to racing it next year. I’m sure it will fly. I appreciate it. “

Alonso’s praise was echoed by Williams’ head of vehicle performance, Dave Robson, who said Britain was “exceptionally good”, especially after a difficult 2019, which saw the team sit out of the rest of the field.

“He’s moved on. Apparently Carrie helped him a lot last year, but nonetheless, I think he was very good at creating most of the situation last year.”

“I think he probably learned in some trouble. Hopefully he will look back in five or 10 years and think that last year that year was really very valuable, pathetic though it was at the time, but definitely he has taken the step.

“It simply came to our notice then. He really has the confidence to guide us, and now has the experience. He’s got a lot to learn, but Neo has undoubtedly moved on.

“I think he’s a real talent, a great asset to the team.”

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