Williams says it is its responsibility to provide George Russell with a car with which the British youngster can “show some of his real talent”, after a difficult 2019 season for the operation.
Russell stepped up to Formula 1 with Williams last year off the back of successive titles in feeder categories GP3 and Formula 2.
The Mercedes-backed youngster out-qualified team-mate Robert Kubica at each race but the Pole’s point in Germany left Russell as the only driver on the grid without a point.
Williams spent 2019 rooted to the rear of the 10-team grid, amid difficulties with its FW42, prompting an overhaul of its organisation behind-the-scenes.
“George did such a good job last year,” said Claire Williams of Russell, entering the second season of a multi-year deal.
“We just need more of the same George and I have no doubts [that] he’ll deliver in the way he did last year.
“I know that George just wants to be given a race car that he can actually show some of his real talent and the onus is on us in order to do that.
“He’s been working hard, he’s in Lanzarote for is training camp, and he’s really keen to get back into the car and see where it is.”
Russell will this year be paired alongside sole 2020 rookie Nicholas Latifi, who held the role of reserve through 2019, and steps up as Formula 2 runner-up.
“I’m looking forward to seeing what they’ll do and drive each other on,” she said.
“Nicholas is very hard working, diligent and singularly focused. I know he’s eager to get in the car and he’s looking forward to that and is working hard to prepare for that.
“We know him because we worked with him last year, we know what he’s potentially capable of.
“I think he had a strong F2 campaign and we can only wait and see where he goes – but he’s rookie of the year already and that’s a great thing!”
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