Russell Delighted with Car Performance, Secures Third Front Row

George Russell secures his third consecutive front row, praising Mercedes’ strong performance as he aims for another top result in Qatar.

For the third consecutive race, and the fourth consecutive qualifying session including the Brazil Sprint, George Russell qualified on the front row. The Mercedes F1 driver said:

“It’s a great streak to be on the front row in the last four qualifying sessions. We couldn’t have dreamed of this a few races ago. I feel good rhythm, my first lap was one of the best I’ve done,” Russell said, also commenting on a close moment with Max Verstappen in Q3.

“I didn’t find time in the last lap, and Max blocked me, but I’m focusing on the positives. The car has been very good over the last two weekends, and I want to take advantage of it as long as possible.”

The interference from Verstappen occurred during a preparation lap, and the Briton wondered if his car had sustained any damage: “I ended up in the gravel with the floor scraping the curb. I’m not sure if there’s any damage, but it was scary, two laps before my fast lap.”

Russell is pleased with his strong qualifying streak and hopes to be in the fight for the win again: “We’ve had some great races. Brazil was a bit circumstantial with the rain on Sunday morning, but the pace in Vegas was real, and the pace here is the same.”

“It’s very tight, but it’s great to be up front again. It’s going to be an interesting race, we’ll give it our all, and Max is in the fight. I’m very surprised by their recovery because they were off the pace yesterday and this morning, and now they’re both in Q3, with Max on pole. I’ve got work to do!”