Russell frustrated after Qualifying: "It didn't really click for me"

After looking strong in the practice sessions leading up to Qualifying, Mercedes' George Russell ended up struggling and will start tomorrow's Grand Prix in 6th place.

It was a bit of a struggle for Russell, who was expecting more after looking rapid all weekend. The Brit topped FP1 on Friday and the Mercedes camp were cautiously confident in the pace they were showing. While their pace turned out to be legitimate, with Lewis Hamilton qualifying fourth and challenging for Pole, Russell just never seemed to be comfortable enough to make an impact.

"Not brilliant," he told Sky Sports after Qualifying. "Had a really strong feeling after FP3 but it didn't really click for me. I don't know why. Ultimately, it was a lack of performance in Q2 that affected me in Q3 because we had to take that second set of tyres. So, we only had one set of tyres for Q3."

"P6, not a terrible place to start. It's going to be a vital turn one and the first few laps. I see no reason why we can't fight for a podium."

"I hope they [Ferrari] put all the focus on Max because then they might be vulnerable to be honest because Max will just clear off into the distance. I think we will maybe have a faster can then Ferrari and Checo tomorrow."