Mercedes reveals Hamilton replacement

British youngster George Russell has been given the opportunity of a lifetime after he was named as Lewis Hamilton's replacement for this weekend's Sakhir Grand Prix.

The 22-year-old was given the green light to make the switch after Mercedes opened talks with Williams to release the young gun after Hamilton tested positive to COVID-19 on Monday and was ruled out of the Sakhir GP.

Williams reserve Jack Aitken will replace Russell, joining regular driver Nicholas Latifi.

"Firstly, I want to say a huge thank you to everybody at Williams for giving me this opportunity," Russell said in a statement.

"I might be wearing a different race suit this weekend, but I'm a Williams driver and I'll be cheering my team on every step of the way.

"I see this as a great chance to learn from the best outfit on the grid right now and to come back as an improved driver, with even more energy and experience to help push Williams further up the grid. A big thank you also to Mercedes for putting their faith in me.

"Obviously, nobody can replace Lewis, but I'll give my all for the team in his absence from the moment I step in the car. Most importantly, I wish him a speedy recovery. I'm really looking forward to the opportunity and can't wait to get out on track this week."

Russell made his F1 debut last year with Williams and impressed observers with a number of strong drives.

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"Our long-term partnership and George's affiliation with Mercedes is no secret, and so I'm delighted George has this unique opportunity to join Mercedes, the current Constructors' Champions," Williams' Acting Team Principal, Simon Roberts said in a statement.

"We have been working hard to ensure that an agreement could be made with Mercedes to allow him this fantastic opportunity. George very much remains a Williams driver and we look forward to him returning to us fresh from this experience and wish him a successful race this weekend."

Russell would also be an option to stay in the car for the final race of the season in Abu Dhabi, should Hamilton not recover in time to return to racing.