Toto Wolff on Russell & Antonelli at Spielberg: That’s what made the difference

Initially, there was widespread confusion when, towards the end of qualifying at the Red Bull Ring, George Russell’s name appeared at the top of the timing screen. After all, the experienced Mercedes driver had only just finished his lap when Max Verstappen had already spun off and the double yellow flags were being displayed.

Why wasn’t the Briton’s lap disallowed? FIA officials explained: as Russell passed the scene of the accident, a single yellow flag was still out – meaning it was sufficient for the Mercedes driver to slow down enough to avoid having his lap disallowed. His team-mate Kimi Antonelli was equally fortunate, but chose to abort his lap.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff praised him after the qualifying session: “George lifted off the throttle for 100 metres, which cost him one and a half tenths. It was an incredible lap he put in; we could see from the data that, compared to his previous laps, he really took his foot off the throttle. He did that well, and I’m really happy that he secured pole position.”

“He’s done a brilliant job and has been performing well all weekend. When it really mattered, he drew on his experience, lifted off at just the right moment and put in the best possible lap. Sometimes you have to keep things simple and just drive, and that’s exactly what he did,” added the Viennese.

On Antonelli, who didn’t react quite as quickly, Wolff said: “I think he was under the impression that double yellow flags had been shown. But fourth place is a good starting position and he still has every chance in the race. He’s gaining more experience with every race weekend and has once again proved that he can compete right at the front.”

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