Russell remains cautious: 'Verstappen will fly again'

Mercedes has yet to win a Grand Prix this season, but with George Russell winning the sprint race in Brazil, the German outfit is celebrating. Russell said afterwards that he is very happy with the W13 and thinks he has a good chance of winning again on Sunday.

"It was incredible. We didn't expect that we would have that much pace," said Russell in an initial reaction on the grid. "It goes to show all the hard work that everyone has put in and the progress we as a team have made. These last three races since Austin, the car has been feeling really great."

The driver fourth in the world championship continued his story by saying he was somewhat cautious in the fight with Verstappen. He didn't give everything because the real points won't be handed out until Sunday. " I think it's a little bit difficult because this is the sprint so it's risk versus reward. So, even though I was dying for that victory I didn't want to risk it too much and end up at the back."

Russell expects strong Red Bull

About his chances in the main race, Russell is keeping somewhat quiet, although of course he knows that a better starting position than this is not possible. After all, from P2, he will also be backed up by teammate Lewis Hamilton. "Max is going to be flying coming through the field tomorrow but we are in a luxury position with strategy to go for the win"

It is not the first time Russell has started from pole position this season. Previously, the young Briton was allowed to start from the first starting spot in Hungary. In the end, he then finished third in Budapest. Russell will be hoping to achieve a better result in Brazil, but with the two Red Bulls on the second row of the grid, nothing is certain.