'Williams wanted to replace Russell for Magnussen by the end of 2020'

Kevin Magnussen has revealed in his new book All or Nothing that he was approached by Williams as a replacement for George Russell. The Dane said that he was no longer interested in Formula 1.

Magnussen is currently competing in the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship in America where he has already scored one victory. However, the racing driver could also stay in Formula 1. In his new book, Magnussen reveals, according to the Danish TV3 that he was approached by Williams in late 2020.

''I was at a bit of a standstill in Formula 1, but I had a chance to stay because I had contact with Williams. However, it would be like rewinding back in time. I had to find a lot of sponsors for Williams or bring a decent cheque, just like with McLaren and Renault,'' Magnussen said.

The Dane assumed he was to be Nicholas Latifi's replacement, but fell off his chair in surprise when it emerged he was to replace Russell. ''Williams saw me as a possible replacement for George Russell. 'What kind of team is that?', I thought. To drop Russell and keep Nicholas Latifi was ridiculous, pure idiocy.''

''George Russell is a mega-talent who won both GP3 and Formula 2 in his first season in those series and the Briton shouldn't be leaving Formula 1. If Williams wanted anything, they had to get the Canadian out. Then they would have George Russell and Kevin Magnussen, a strong line-up in my view'', concludes the former Haas driver.