Russell winner and surprised: “I didn't expect to have so much pace! »

Mercedes and George Russell won a race this year, finally! Yes but… it’s only a Sprint race! However, the Briton and his mount impressed on the Interlagos circuit, remembering last season for the Silver Arrows. Left 3rd and quickly got rid of Magnussen, the young English driver then got the better of Verstappen, much less in the game with its medium tires.

“It was incredible. I didn't expect to have so much pace! It shows all the hard work the team is putting in and the progress we have made, especially in these last few races since Austin. The car was good, but it's difficult to say what pace Max [Verstappen] would have had if he had put on soft tires,” said the ex-driver. Williams, who won his first Sprint race in F1.

Russell on pole, Hamilton 2nd: Mercedes in an ideal position

Above all, George Russell emerged victorious from an epic duel with Verstappen, at the end of a two-headed battle for more than 3 laps. “It was very difficult because it was a Sprint race and we have to manage this risk/reward balance,” said the Mercedes driver. Even though I wanted this victory, I didn't want to take too many risks. I didn't want to lose everything and start from the back of the grid, but we managed to overtake [Max Verstappen], and yes, the 3rd [attempt] was the right one! »

On Sunday, for the real São Paulo Grand Prix, the Silver Arrows will occupy the first row, if Hamilton is cleared by the race stewards (since under investigation for an infraction during the start procedure). A first this season, which could help the German team to get this long-awaited first victory this year. “It’s crazy that we can both start on the first row! Lewis [Hamilton] did a great job moving up from 8th place. I'm sure Max will come back stronger tomorrow, but we are in an ideal position and we will be able to choose different strategies to play for victory. »

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