In the first race of the season, George Russell secured third place after driving a Grand Prix with very few mistakes.
An almost anonymous third place, in the most positive sense of the word, for George Russell, who finished on the podium, without major errors, in the season opener in Melbourne. The two McLarens and Max Verstappen were too fast for the Mercedes driver, who, during the first part of the race, controlled Charles Leclerc’s attempts to recover without much trouble.
Russell himself commented on his race: “I think the best thing was just to stay out of trouble, to be honest. From the start, it was clear that these guys were too fast for us, while we were faster than Ferrari. I found myself a bit in no man’s land. I made a decision quite early: the best way to approach this race was simply to bring it home.
If I had taken more risks, there wouldn’t have been any reward, considering how far ahead they were. It was very difficult. As Lando said, every little mistake would have been punished. But I’m happy to come home with this result, because I don’t think this was our strongest track. Especially after yesterday, with the high temperatures, I’m also very pleased with the fourth place in qualifying.”
The Mercedes driver then added: “The process started this morning, to be honest. We had some really interesting conversations about how we would make decisions, what they expected from me, and what I expected from them. I knew the rain would get heavier, so it was up to me to make that call. Just like Lando, I called it five seconds early, and the guys were ready to change the tires.
That moment was crucial for the race. I’m really happy with it, because these mixed-condition races have slipped away from us in the last two occasions. When we look at Brazil last year, we both made the wrong strategy. Also in Montreal, we missed out. I think now, just being here, is a good result.”
On Antonelli’s outstanding race, he then said: “Kimi finished fourth after an unlucky qualifying. We saw a lot of drivers struggle to keep the car on track, especially the rookies, while he made no mistakes. He was unlucky yesterday, but I have no doubt he’ll give me a hard time this year. I’m happy for him, especially looking at the Constructors’ Championship: if we can fight together, it will be extremely positive. Today was a good day for the team.”
Photo: X Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team
