Wolff 'proud' of Russell after securing dramatic Pole Position for Austria GP

Ferrari looked set for a front-row lock out after Verstappen's spin, which threw Qualifying on its head as Russell crossed the line to take P1. After much initial confusion, the FIA deemed that Russell had slowed efficiently under the yellow flag, meaning he takes Pole two tenths ahead of Charles Leclerc - with championship rival Lewis Hamilton in P3.

Speaking shortly after Qualifying, Wolff was adamant Russell's on-track P1 would eventually stand, congratulating the 28-year-old on how he handled the situation.

Wolff explained to Sky F1: "It was a 100m lift, single yellow. A 100m lift of George Russell loses a tenth and a half. It is completely on. It was a massive lift.

"Well done to George for how he managed it. I am proud," Wolff added, before explaining why Antonelli was unable to match his teammate - the championship leader finished P4. "I think Kimi Antonelli was under the impression it was a double yellow," the Silver Arrows boss said.

Speaking after the race, Russell explained how he had lifted in the final parts of the lap and still secured Pole, thrilled after an important result in terms of his championship hopes. Russell said: "I feel incredible. It was an amazing lap.

Former F1 strategist Bernie Collins further explained on Sky F1 why Russell's Pole Position was allowed to remain.

"In data, and everything I can see, at the point George Russell and Kimi Antonelli went through that sector it was not a double-waved yellow flag," Collins said.