Sprint Winner George Russell Feared the Worst During His Battle With Aggressive Max Verstappen: “Even Though I Was Dying To Get That Victory…”

The Brazilian Grand Prix sprint race was a wild affair. The 24 laps were full of action. We saw teammates collide driving through the pack as well as a solid showing by Kevin Magnussen. But amongst the carnage, came out George Russell; victorious.

George Russell will start from P1 in today’s Brazilian Grand Prix. That being said, it wasn’t an easy job getting there for the Brit. He had to fight 2x Champion Max Verstappen on multiple occasions. However, on occasions, Russell feared the worst.

Speaking about his charge to P1, he said, “Even though I was dying to get that victory, I didn’t want to risk it too much and have no points starting at the back.” 

Eventually though, on lap 13 of the 24-lap sprint race, the Mercedes star finally got the better of Verstappen.

“We made it stick and third time lucky.”

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The sprint race was a true showing of that Mercedes pace we’ve been witnessing since Austin. But will it be enough for the Silver Arrows or will Verstappen slice through them and dominate like he’s been doing all season? Russell gave us some food for thought.

George Russell hopeful of Mercedes victory at 2022 Brazilian GP

Mercedes have been showing some latent pace off late. But the real question is whether it is enough to dethrone Red Bull and Verstappen in the remaining two races of the F1 season. However, post the Brazilian GP sprint race, Russell was in a contemplative mood.

“It is difficult to know how Max would have got on if he had been on the soft tires. Nevertheless, standing here is a great feeling,” he said after winning the Sprint Race. He then went on to sign off with a strong statement of intent.

“I am sure Max is going to be flying tomorrow coming through the pack, but we are in a luxury position for tomorrow and can maybe split the strategy and go for the win.”

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Lewis Hamilton starts alongside George Russell for the Brazilian Grand Prix. Will we finally see that elusive victory for Mercedes in 2022?