Russell proud of comeback after Miami struggles: 'Never doubted myself'

Kimi Antonelli, the two McLaren drivers, and Lewis Hamilton tried to put Russell under pressure in Sprint Qualifying, but it was the Briton's day at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. He ultimately finished just 0.068 seconds ahead of his teammate and championship rival today in Canada.

Speaking on the grid after the session, the Mercedes driver said, also reflecting on his issues in Miami: "This feels great after a tough Miami but I never doubted myself. I know what I can do. Miami is unique but this is an amazing circuit with high grip. It feels you are driving a proper F1 car around here, which is how it should be. It came together today."

The German team has brought a big update package to this weekend in Montreal. They have a revised front wing and endplate aimed at improving airflow conditioning, alongside changes to the front corner area, including a reduced upper lip camber and enlarged inlet and exit sizes to enhance cooling.

Looking ahead to the race, which has been Mercedes’ weak point so far this year, he added: "The team have done a great job to bring things forward and there is now a big focus for tomorrow. We are making baby steps. I am not going to say we are going to fly off the line. I hope that's the case but history tells us that hasn't happened often or at all this year. McLaren have been making good starts." The two McLarens will line up on the second row behind Russell and Antonelli, with the Ferraris occupying the third row of the grid.