George Russell laments missed Mercedes opportunity in Qatar Grand Prix clash with Lewis Hamilton
George Russell Mercedes - Mar 2023
George Russell expressed his disappointment following a dramatic collision with Lewis Hamilton during the Qatar Grand Prix, labelling it a "missed opportunity" for Mercedes.
The incident occurred on the opening lap of the race, leaving both drivers off track. While Russell managed to continue and secure a fourth-place finish, Hamilton was forced to retire immediately.
The collision transpired as the two drivers approached Turn 1, with Hamilton gaining an advantage thanks to his Soft tires. Attempting to go side-by-side, Hamilton's car inadvertently made contact with the front left of Russell's, sending them both off track.
Despite the setback, Russell made an impressive recovery, clawing his way through the field to secure a valuable 12 points for Mercedes. This performance allowed Mercedes to outscore Ferrari in their ongoing battle for second place in the Constructors' Championship. Charles Leclerc finished fifth for Ferrari, while Carlos Sainz failed to start the race due to a fuel pump issue.
Russell voiced his frustration, believing that more was within reach had the collision with Hamilton not occurred. He emphasized the team's goal of securing second place in the Constructors' Championship and the need to work together towards that objective.
"It is frustrating because it was a big missed opportunity for us; we've got one goal, and that's to finish P2 in the Constructors' Championship," Russell remarked to media. "We had a lot of discussions this morning about how we're going to work together; the fight was not with each other but with Ferrari."
Russell also highlighted the mutual respect between him and Hamilton, emphasizing that the collision was not intentional on either side.
Hamilton took responsibility for the incident and offered an apology, a gesture Russell appreciated despite the loss of a potential podium finish.
"I definitely appreciate him apologizing," Russell acknowledged. "In every incident, it involves two people."
Russell expressed his disappointment over the impact on the team's standings in the Drivers' Championship, noting that their primary focus had been on securing a strong position in the Constructors' Championship.
"We've had one goal, which was to finish P2 in the Constructors' Championship, and we lost a big opportunity," Russell lamented. However, he remained optimistic about the team's prospects, citing the car's speed, strong race performance, and upcoming updates for the season's final races.
The next Formula 1 race is scheduled for October 22 in Austin, Texas, on the 5.5-kilometer Circuit of the Americas track.
The United States Grand Prix returned to the Formula 1 calendar in 2012 after a four-year hiatus, reflecting the sport's growing popularity in America. In 2023, Formula 1's presence in the United States will expand further, with the Miami Grand Prix making a return and a new event in Las Vegas set to take place later in the season.
