Russell disappointed with Q1 exit, but knows 'points are scored tomorrow'

George Russell has revealed it was a "shame" to exit qualifying for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in Q1, and admitted that progression into the next stage was expected on Saturday.

Russell qualified down in 17th, and was beaten by teammate Nicholas Latifi in traditional qualifying for only the second ever time. Russell, who joined Williams ahead of the 2019 season, will leave the team after this race weekend to join Mercedes.

He will pair up with Lewis Hamilton, who is gunning for an eighth world title on Sunday, at the German outfit, and replace Alfa Romeo-bound Valtteri Bottas.

In his final qualifying session for Williams, the man nicknamed 'Mr Saturday' for his typically impressive qualifying form, was unable to dleiver his usual prowess in Q1. He couldn't progress, despite the fact he was "really confident" of doing so.

What has Russell said?

In a Williams press release, Russell revealed: "The car was feeling great on our flying laps and I was really confident that we could progress into Q2. We went for one push lap at the end and unfortunately, the tyres weren't quite ready so we didn't improve our best time and that was a shame.

"However, the points are scored tomorrow and the most important thing is to secure P8 in the Constructors' Championship. I believe we can achieve that, but we know it's not over until it's over. We will be doing everything we can to finish ahead of Alfa Romeo," he concluded.