Russell replaces Grosjean as director of the Grand Prix Drivers Association

It has been confirmed that Williams driver George Russell will join the Grand Prix Drivers Association as a director, replacing the outgoing director Romain Grosjean.

Ahead of the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix, the GPDA has confirmed that Russell will take over the role of the director of the association from Romain Grosjean who departed from Formula One and is set to join America’s premier class open-wheel series, the IndyCar competition.

The 23-year-old Briton joins existing members, fellow director Sebastian Vettel and Chairman Alex Wurz, as well as another director, Anastasia Fowle – the first ever non-driver appointment – in the GPDA. The trade union of Formula 1 drivers was founded in 1961 to improve safety within F1.

Commenting on the appointment, Russell said: “It is an honour and privilege to be nominated director of the GPDA, I appreciate the support of my fellow drivers in entrusting this role to me and recognise the responsibility it entails.

“In its six decades of existence, the GPDA has been an integral part of supporting and shaping F1 safety, for the sport and our fans. I am looking forward to tackling the new challenges and opportunities alongside Anastasia, Sebastian and Alex,” he added.