George Russell laid down a marker on Saturday with an elbows-out Sprint victory followed by pole position, eradicating any doubt – were any to exist – that he’s more than up for the fight. Championship leader Kimi Antonelli lines-up alongside him, as Mercedes’ upgrade kept them at the front of the pack – just.
The Sprint suggested Mercedes have the pace to stay in front – but not necessarily get in front, and in the longer-format Grand Prix, they’ll need the right strategy to maintain track position, with the McLarens and Ferraris in close attendance.
