Formula 1 saw George Russell return to the top this Friday in Montreal. The Mercedes driver secured pole for the Sprint of the 2026 Canadian GP and highlighted the recovery after a difficult weekend in Miami.
Read more F1: Incident in Montreal fuels rumors about Aston Martin
Russell beat Kimi Antonelli by just 0.068 seconds at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. The Brit also held off pressure from the two McLarens and Lewis Hamilton during the Sprint Qualifying to secure the top spot on the grid for Saturday’s short race.
After the session, Russell said he never lost confidence in his own performance, even after the difficulties faced in the previous round. “This is great after a tough Miami, but I never doubted myself. I know what I’m capable of,” he said.
The driver also praised the characteristics of the Canadian circuit and highlighted the feeling of driving the Mercedes car in Montreal. “Miami is unique, but this is an incredible track, with a lot of grip. It feels like you’re driving a real Formula 1 car here, as it should be. Everything worked today,” he said.
Read more Four-time F1 champion, Alain Prost is injured during robbery
Mercedes debuted a major upgrade package in Canada, including changes to the front wing and components in the front area of the W17 to improve aerodynamic flow and cooling. Russell acknowledged the team’s effort and believes the car is evolving.
Despite the pole, the Brit showed caution when talking about the Sprint and starts, a point considered weak for Mercedes in 2026. “We are evolving in small steps. I won’t say we will rocket off the start. I hope it happens, but history shows it hasn’t happened often this year. McLaren has been making good starts,” he highlighted.
Antonelli will share the front row with Russell, while Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri start just behind for McLaren. Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc complete the third row for Ferrari.
Read more F1 Academy: Palmowski wins race 1 in Canada from start to finish; Ferreira is 4th
