Russell to drive for Mercedes in Hungary tyre test

[August 03, 2021]  (Reuters) - Williams driver George Russell will join Formula One world champions Mercedes for a test of next year's tyres in Hungary on Tuesday, Pirelli said.

Williams' George Russell before the race Pool via REUTERS/Florion Goga

The Briton has a long-term Mercedes contract and has been tipped to replace Valtteri Bottas as Lewis Hamilton's team mate next year. The team have said a decision will be taken over the August break.

The test at the Hungaroring will involve a Mercedes car fitted with 2022-specification 18-inch tyres.

It comes two days after Russell scored his first points for Williams with eighth place, subject to the outcome of a possible Aston Martin appeal, in the Hungarian Grand Prix.

Russell has tested for Mercedes previously at various locations, including the Hungaroring in 2017.

Ferrari and McLaren are also set to take part in the test.

(Reporting by Alan Baldwin in London, editing by Christian Radnedge)

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