McLaren label Russell's yellow flag pole lap 'a case on the edge'

Speaking to GPblog among other media after qualifying, Stella said Russell had done a good job of lifting off the throttle, with the GPS data showing a reduction in speed before braking and a small time loss through Turn 9. At the same time, he noted that Russell still lost little enough to remain on pole position.

Stella explained that the case was open to the stewards' interpretation, as Russell had taken action under yellow flags and that action was deemed to comply with the requirements. However, he also pointed out that drivers are highly capable of executing specific manoeuvres in such situations, giving the stewards a rationale to accept them. For that reason, he described it as a case on the limit, while adding that he had no particular concern over the stewards' decision.

Speaking after qualifying, Russell has revealed he deliberately sacrificed a significant amount of time on his pole-winning lap after encountering yellow flags caused by Verstappen's late crash. The Mercedes driver explained that he made a substantial lift through the final sector to ensure he complied with the regulations, yet still managed to produce a lap quick enough to secure pole position.

Russell also said visibility through that section of the circuit allowed him to judge the situation as he approached. Because he could already see the green flag before reaching the corner and never spotted Verstappen's car, he initially believed the Red Bull had continued. It was only after watching the replay that he realised Verstappen had ended up deep in the barriers, with Russell pleased that the stewards ultimately accepted his actions under the yellow flags.