George Russell finished the qualifying session of the Italian GP of Formula 1 in P2, but believes he had the conditions to fight for pole. The Mercedes driver pointed out problems in the execution of the final attempt and highlighted Max Verstappen’s interference at the Parabolica corner.
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According to Russell, the last fast lap did not go as planned, after a session in which he was among the first in all activities. Kimi Antonelli also played an important role by helping him during the session and providing the necessary slipstream at a certain moment.
“Pole was within our reach today. The last lap was a bit confusing on our side, and maybe we didn’t make things easier for ourselves as we could have,” Russell said. The Briton added that Verstappen ‘complicated things a bit’ at the Parabolica, but acknowledged that this is part of the battles on track.
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Russell also made a point of praising Pierre Gasly, who unexpectedly took pole: “We didn’t expect this level of pace from him today, so it was a surprise, but he did an exceptional job. He is a great person, a great driver and totally deserves this result,” he added.
Despite starting second, Russell remains confident for the race and sees good overtaking possibilities in Monza: “The starting position still puts us in a strong position for tomorrow,” he concluded, also highlighting that a good start and a first lap without problems will be essential for him to lead his own race and seek victory.
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