F1 News

Russell waiting for Norris and Verstappen to duel in Austria

Russell has a cunning plan: 'Wait for Norris and Verstappen to fall out'

29 June at 17:50
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  • Matt Gretton
  • Editor-in-Chief

George Russell is looking forward to watching Max Verstappen and Lando Norris fight for the lead of the Austrian Grand Prix. He expects a tasty battle between the two front-row starters and jokingly mentioned how he wants to take advantage of any fallout.

Last weekend in Spain, Russell made a spectacular move at the first corner which saw him take the lead of the Grand Prix. The Brit isn't expecting the same chance to come up this time around in Austria.

"I think it's a bit more challenging. I think these guys always get their elbows out, so maybe this time, sit back and watch it all take place," Russell said before stating he will be a bit more cautious against the front runners. "Last week, I lost a lot of time battling with Lando and probably focused too much on the guys ahead of me. And ultimately, that cost me the position to Lewis and Charles as well. So, as I said, I think the race is behind us tomorrow."

Russell warns more is to come from Mercedes

Russell confirms Mercedes changed their car from the sprint race to qualifying with an eye on the Grand Prix. "The gap to Max was bigger than we expected. We made a few changes with the car, which I think will help us tomorrow [Sunday]," Russell said before warning Ferrari there's more pace in his car.

"The last lap in Q3 was all a bit messy. I had to let quite a few people by on my out lap, and then during the lap, I could just see dust everywhere and gravel on the track. And that's frustrating as a driver when you go through a corner, you just see gravel everywhere. So there's a bit more in it. But really pleased to end up P3," he concluded.