Latifi: 'I need to take on that leadership role at Williams'

It is going to be an important season for Nicholas Latifi. The Canadian is entering his third season in Formula 1 and will have to prove this season that he deserves his place on the grid after two seasons driving in the shadow of George Russell.

In an interview with The Race Latifi let it be known that it is difficult to set goals for next season already, mainly because he does not yet know how the car will do with the new aerodynamic rules. "But for the broader expectations, if I feel like I'm getting the most out of the car and the package I have, I know I can be as fast as anyone."

With the departure of Russell to Mercedes, Latifi will have a new teammate in Alexander Albon next season. Latifi will be driving his third season for Williams and is keen to take on a leadership role. "It's a new car, a new start. The feedback will be crucial and that will be something new for me. I have to take that leadership role and be sure of my decisions."

The 26-year-old Canadian has an expiring contract at Williams and will therefore be only too eager to prove himself this season. Latifi knows he has an incredibly important year ahead if he is to receive a new contract offer.