Russell confesses in Abu Dhabi: ‘I've let the team down a few times in '23'
F1 News
George Russell finished the race on track in P4 at the Yas Marina Circuit, and then he was able to stay within five seconds of Sergio Perez to finish third and secure P2 in the constructors’ standings for his team.
"There are so many people back at the factory, Brackley, Brixworth, who have worked so hard to achieve this. It has been a really challenging season. I have let the side down a couple of times this year so [I am] pleased to bring it across the line," said George Russell immediately after getting out of his car in Abu Dhabi.
Russell was worried that Charles Leclerc would help Perez get the necessary five-second gap, but it was too late for the Ferrari driver. "It was tight with Checo at the end and I thought Charles was going to back me up, but respect to him for keeping it clean. Woah, I can chill out now!"
He added: "I came out of the pits on the second set of hards, managing a bit, and Checo came from nowhere. I don't know what happened there, they had great pace, it was really tense at the end. The tyres were dropping off but really pleased to have secured P2 for the team. I'm sure the team will have a few drinks tonight."