Williams’ George Russell believes he’s in a “good place” for the upcoming Russian Grand Prix after making his first Q2 appearance since the Belgian Grand Prix on Saturday.
The 22-year-old ended the qualifying session at Sochi in 14th place, ahead of Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel, who crashed out after spinning at Turn 4.
Despite the four-time world champion’s shunt with the wall, Russell thinks Williams had the pace to get ahead of the German “almost on true pace”.
“I’m very happy, I don’t think the car’s true pace this weekend was as good as it has been at other races,” Russell said.
“I think we’re looking in very good shape for tomorrow with the set-up we chose.”
Russell is still awaiting his first points finish in F1 ahead of his 31st grand prix start.
Although Williams has consistently been in the lower end of the pecking order this year, it has been able to beat rivals Haas and Alfa Romeo.
However, Russell admits he expects the aforementioned teams to be faster during the race at Sochi, and expects a challenge to stay ahead.
“The last couple of weekends, we have been focusing more on Sunday as we have recognised this season our Saturday pace has been good,” he said.
“But Sunday not so much. We have trimmed it out a bit more to be a bit quicker on the straights. I think we are in a good position for tomorrow.
“But I do think they just have the edge on us, so it’ll be a race to try and drive as quick as I can and checking my mirrors and making sure they don’t overtake me.”
