Russell willing to take risk: 'Close up the gap'

Mercedes has to settle for third position behind Ferrari and Red Bull Racing for now. If it's up to George Russell, however, that won't last long, as the driver expects his team to make quick strides. He tells Sky Sports and others this at the press conference.

Russell made the switch from Williams to Mercedes at the beginning of the season. Where he hoped to compete for pole position at the German racing team, it seems that this is still unrealistic. In that sense, Russell notices little difference compared to his period at Williams.

"For me personally it feels at the moment in a similar position to what I had myself in previous years," Russell stated. "That our competitors ahead of us are so far in front but we do have a bit of a buffer behind that we can afford to take a few more risks and close up the gap."

However, the driver is aware that Mercedes is facing a challenging season. For example, earlier this week he let it be known that Ferrari and Red Bull have the faster cars for the time being, so a lot has to happen for the Germans to get back on top. However, he remains confident in his team.