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Williams F1 team: Lance Stroll decision for 2017 was easy

Williams's decision to sign Lance Stroll for the 2017 Formula 1 season was easy because he is the "full package", according to deputy team principal Claire Williams

Stroll, 18, will make his F1 debut with Williams next season alongside Valtteri Bottas after being signed to replace the retiring Felipe Massa on the back of his Formula 3 European championship success this year.

The Canadian joined the Williams young driver development driver scheme at the end of last season and has since embarked on an extensive simulator programme, and he has also carried out on-track testing in a 2014-spec car.

"We are a team with clear ambitions in this sport, we are the third most successful team in F1 and we have won 16 world championships," said Williams.

"But we have clear ambitions for the future, and if we are to achieve those ambitions, we need great talent.

"For Lance and us it's exciting. He's done such a great job in the F3 championship this year and he's the full package for us.

Why Williams has backed the right horse

"When we're looking to choose a race driver, he has everything.

"He has the talent, he is intelligent, gives great feedback to the engineers so for us, it was an easy decision."

Stroll's testing programme continues next month, with more time in the car as well as further simulator work and integration with the team at its Grove base.

ROOKIE TIPPED TO SCORE POINTS EARLY

Bottas has promised to help Stroll get up to speed and he believes he will settle in quickly.

"I'm sure it won't take that long that he is going to score his first points," said Bottas.

"We're a strong team together and we can work well together as a good pairing.

"My job never changes, it's always about squeezing every bit of performance out of the car and that means working together with the team-mate.

"I'll help Lance in any way I can to help him learn quick.

"He's a talented driver so I'm sure we can be a good pairing."

Williams said there are no plans for Stroll to take part in any Friday running at the last two race weekends of 2016 as the team does not believe it would be fair on either of its current drivers.

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