George Russell had a challenging weekend at F1’s São Paulo GP. The Mercedes driver finished the race in fourth place after a third place finish in the sprint. This P4 was a hard-fought result for the driver who qualified P6.
After the race, Russell shared his thoughts about his performance at the São Paulo GP. He was honest about his P4 result as he called it “the maximum.” He did not think a podium was possible as Russell admitted to difficulties.
“I’ve struggled this whole weekend,” Russell said. He specifically mentioned his lack of pace which has been a consistent issue for him. The struggled impacted his entire Grand Prix as he was not comfortable in the car.
A weekend of mixed results
Despite Russell feeling “pretty off the pace” all weekend at the São Paulo GP, he was quick to praise his own performance as well as his teammates.
He was “pretty pleased” with his result. As for his younger teammate, Russell noted, “Kimi’s done a great job.”
Antonelli qualified P2 for the Sprint, achieved a P2 in the Sprint, qualified P2 for the race, and achieved a P2 in the race. This P2 position is his career best position as a rookie.
Questions were asked about the problems faced by Russell and whether they were track-specific. However, the British driver did not give a simple answer. He seems to be confident for the final three races. “I think it’s generally been a very strong season.”
Underperforming but overachieving
Russell knows it is not possible to be great every race. He knows that it is unrealistic. “I think we’ve probably only had two races,” he said on races the team have underperformed.
He described the São Paulo GP as underperforming as well. The team’s pace was not where it should be, but the result was a different story. Russell called it an “overachieved” victory with the P4.
Focus shifts to Constructors’ Championship
The main focus for Russell after the São Paulo GP is the team. “The goal right now is to get P2,” he stated.
The points from the São Paulo GP were vital as it was a “good step towards it.” Now, they look ahead to the final three races.
