George Russell’s afternoon of heavy lifting around Spa-Francorchamps ultimately left the Mercedes driver heartbroken following his disqualification, but nevertheless “proud” of his brilliant performance.
Last Sunday’s race was shaping up to be a defining moment in Russell’s Formula 1 career, with the young Briton delivering a masterclass in racecraft, outmaneuvering his rivals and executing a daring one-stop strategy that appeared to be the key to victory.
A one-stopper was a high-risk proposition, but Russell’s meticulous tyre management and exceptional pace – not to mention his “gut instinct” – allowed him to defy the odds.
That he was also able to resist a charge from his Mercedes teammate Lewis Hamilton – running on much fresher rubber – was equally remarkable.
Sadly, the immediate post-race euphoria was short-lived, with 1.5kg somehow disappearing from his car’s minimum weight level.
“It is heartbreaking to be disqualified from today’s race,” Russell said, his voice filled with disappointment.
“It had been an unbelievable Grand Prix for us to make the one-stop strategy work. In what turned out to be my final stint, the tyres just kept getting better and better.
“I was nursing them in the early stages and, as we went further, I became more and more convinced we could get to the end on them. It was a risk worth taking and it looked like it had paid off.”
Despite the crushing outcome, Russell maintained a positive outlook.
“Despite the disqualification, I am of course proud to have crossed the line first. It is also good that the team was still able to take the victory with Lewis.
"He drove a great race and was the fastest car out there on the two-stop strategy. Whilst I’m incredibly disappointed, I know we will bounce back stronger after the summer break, starting in Zandvoort.”
The disqualification was a harsh blow for Russell, but it did little to overshadow his exceptional performance.
His race pace was a clear indication of Mercedes’ progress, and the team will be eager to build on this momentum.
With the new floor set to return for the Dutch Grand Prix, the Silver Arrows will be looking to carry their strong form into the second half of the season.
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