George Russell didn't really appreciate the McLaren strategy during the Sprint race even if he admits to understanding the reason.
On the front row at the start, George Russell had his second place stolen after the first corner by Oscar Piastri, an overtake which cost him the opportunity to fight against Lando Norris for the Sprint victory.
Indeed, Russell found himself trapped by a clever McLaren strategy which saw leader Norris give the DRS to second-placed Piastri, allowing the Australian to defend his place ahead of the Mercedes.
“It was very tight entering the first corner on several occasions,” admitted Russell at the F1 microphone. “It was so frustrating at every turn that Lando [Norris] released and gave DRS to Oscar [Piastri]. I understand why they did that, but when you're here and you're fighting and you want to give it your all and make a run for the fans, it was really maddening. Anyway, it was third place, and it's [la séance de qualifications de] this afternoon which will be the most important.”
Also Read: Norris Explains Why He Let Piastri Win Sprint Race
Russell would have liked to face Norris
Third in this Sprint race, George Russell would have liked to see the “real rhythm” of Lando Norris without this team play.
“I had a hard time towards the end [avec les pneus]but I think Lando had a good rhythm, Oscar had a little trouble,” Russell continues. It would have been good to take on Lando and see what his real pace would have been, I think he had quite a bit in his pocket giving Oscar the DRS.”
After this team play, Lando Norris finally left the Sprint victory to Oscar Piastri returning the favor after the Brazil Sprint race.
Read also: Sprint Race – Norris offers victory to Piastri, full success for McLaren
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