Williams' head of vehicle performance Dave Robson believes there are clear similarities between Lewis Hamilton and George Russell.
Robson worked with Hamilton during the seven-time world champion's spell at McLaren and has seen Russell resemble similar traits to Hamilton in the last few years.
"I think there are definitely some similarities and I think they were obvious from from start," Robson told RacingNews365.com and other select members of the press.
"The first time I met George, we ran him in the simulator at Grove and went up and running around the airfield in a road car. There was something there.
"I think the talent is there and he is very close to Lewis. He has the potential to get there for sure."
Russell is 17th in the drivers' standings and has been linked to a Mercedes seat for 2022.