‘Incredible to be back’: George Russell claims seventh F1 victory as Mercedes get back to winning ways before Silverstone
Brackley outfit Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 Team got back to winning ways as George Russell returned to the top step at the Austrian Grand Prix.
Russell, who had not won since the opening round in Australia, converted pole position to claim maximum points at the Red Bull Ring, building momentum ahead of this weekend’s home Silverstone Grand Prix.
The Brit just about survived a late charge from Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen and Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli, who were both within two seconds at the checkered flag in the scenic Styrian hills.
In doing so, Mercedes claimed their seventh victory in eight races, bouncing back after losing out to Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton in Barcelona-Catalunya two weeks earlier.
For Russell, there was a great sense of relief as well as elation as he has cut a frustrated figure for much of the season so far.
The former Williams man went four grands prix without a podium between Japan and Monaco, all while teammate Antonelli was enjoying a five-race winning streak.
“It’s incredible to be back on the top step,” Russell told interviewer David Coulthard in parc ferme.
“It’s been a little while, so I’m definitely going to enjoy this one. A lot of hard work from my team to get us back on track.
“Obviously there was a tricky run of form at one point. Max and Red Bull were incredibly quick this weekend, so kudos to them, but thanks to everyone and thanks to the fans.”
After eight rounds, Mercedes (302) have built up a 98-point lead to Ferrari (204) in the constructors’ championship.
Meanwhile, in the drivers’ standings, Russell (131) has reclaimed second spot ahead of Hamilton (125), though Antonelli (171) still has a healthy 40-point buffer.
Russell will be eager to build momentum at his home race this weekend, though this could be a very different-looking Silverstone with the new engine regulations.
It will also be tricky to hold off the improving Ferrari and Red Bull drivers, while McLaren’s Lando Norris will be determined to impress in front of his expanded ‘Landostand’ at Stowe.
But Mercedes can take great confidence from Austria, where they proved they remain the team to beat.