“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’s absence at Williams will give a debut to 25-year-old Aitken.
And the British-Korean driver was over the moon to be given his chance.
Aitken wrote on Twitter: “I can’t believe this, but… I will make my F1 debut with @WilliamsRacing this weekend. Huge thank you to them, and obviously my best wishes to Lewis, and George making the step into the Merc. #YOTUS baby.”
