Russell ‘definitely’ confident of fighting for Sprint win in Qatar as downbeat Hamilton declares himself ‘not fast anymore’

There have been contrasting feelings on the Mercedes staff after Dash Qualifying in Qatar, with George Russell thrilled by his sturdy drive to P2 on the grid whereas Lewis Hamilton was downbeat after feeling he was “simply sluggish” in P7.

Off the again of his victory final day trip in Las Vegas, Russell seemed to have carried this way over to the Lusail Worldwide Circuit. The Briton had an excellent session all through, culminating in him disrupting a possible McLaren entrance row lockout by snatching second place within the ultimate moments of SQ3, which means he’ll begin alongside pole-sitter Lando Norris for the Dash.

READ MORE: Norris storms to impressive Sprint Qualifying pole in Qatar ahead of Russell and Piastri

A smiling Russell defined afterwards: “[I] felt actually sturdy all session. The automobile was actually nice and this circuit is basically probably the greatest, once you get within the groove and that rhythm.

“It’s so quick, I went flat by means of the high-speed for the primary time on my ultimate lap in Q3 and confused the engine somewhat bit. I don’t understand how a lot I misplaced, however I had a giant recharge on the exit of the nook as a result of I went by means of it flat, manner too technical for this interview!

“However that was a bit annoying, when it’s like… I simply nailed it after which I misplaced a load of the velocity on the exit, however I believe Lando was only a smidge out of attain.”