Russell optimistic for the race in Monaco: 'Just believe'

George Russell was satisfied after Qualifying at the Monaco Grand Prix. The Briton finished only behind the two Ferraris and the two McLarens, and even qualified ahead of Max Verstappen. The Briton is ambitious ahead of the race in the principality.

"It was a really strong session, I felt really good in the car," Russell began telling GPblog and others in Monaco after qualifying, where he finished in fifth position, and was only just behind Lando Norris to miss on the second row of the grid. If Carlos Sainz is found to be guilty by the stewards, however, the Briton still might start from P4.

"It was just obviously so close to P3, which was obviously very frustrating, but the team have done an amazing job bringing upgrades to the car earlier than expected, and it's really paying dividends, and I feel the progress," the Mercedes driver declared.

"I think we've got to believe it. Strategy is key. You need a little bit of fortune on your side. You can go long, which is maybe not the ideal strategy, but if there is a safety car or VSC, then it will make the difference," Russell said about the race. "I think you need to be fast around the pit stops, keeping the tyres alive to push the throttle pedal down to be quick there. [I'm] not really [looking in the mirrors]. I'm looking forward to try and pick up some positions."