Motorsport: Brit George Russell confirmed as Lewis Hamilton's Mercedes teammate for 2022 Formula One season

George Russell will race for Mercedes next season in an all-British line-up with seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton.

Russell, who is in his third season at Williams, will replace Finland's Valtteri Bottas, whose move to Alfa Romeo has been made official.

The 23-year-old will be Hamilton's first new teammate since Bottas, now 32, also joined from Williams to replace retired 2016 world champion Nico Rosberg in 2017.

Mercedes have won the last seven drivers and constructors championships, and are leading the current team standings after 13 races, although Hamilton is three points behind Red Bull's Max Verstappen.

Hamilton, 36, has a contract for 2022 and 2023.

"I'd be lying if I said I wasn't absolutely buzzing," says Russell. "It's a huge opportunity and one I want to grab with both hands. 

"I've looked up to Lewis since I was in go-karts, and the opportunity to learn from someone who has become a role model both on and off track can only benefit me as a driver, a professional, and a human being."

Reuters