Harsh verdict from Villeneuve: Russell’s performance ‘disappointing’ despite second place

At the Formula 1 race at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, George Russell was in the best possible position on race day, having secured pole position for the seventh round of the season in qualifying the day before. The Briton was determined to do everything in his power to prevent his Mercedes team-mate from claiming his sixth consecutive Grand Prix victory – a feat that would not only extend his lead in the World Championship but also see him draw level with his team-mate on the all-time list of Grand Prix winners.

In fact, the World Championship leader’s winning streak – who is putting in a remarkable performance in his second Grand Prix season whilst still a teenager – came to an end. However, this was not least because he fell victim to a technical issue shortly before the end of the race when his battery failed. The young Italian had only just overtaken his far more experienced team-mate, moving himself into second place.

Is the World Championship battle already lost?

Russell inherited second place and gratefully accepted the gift. This reduced his deficit to his team-mate to 50 World Championship points. However, the performance of the 28-year-old, who has had a lot of bad luck so far this season, was not appreciated by everyone. Jacques Villeneuve, who was commentating on the race for ‘Sky Sports F1’, said: “Russell didn’t defend himself very well. He left the door open too wide.”

And the 1997 world champion, who is never one to mince his words, added: “He didn’t look like a driver fighting for the title. Rather, it looked as though he’d already lost the battle against his team-mate.” In fact, it was a disappointing performance from Russell. He had no pace. It was a different story in qualifying, where he had his team-mate under control. But in the race, he lacked the speed; things were going in the wrong direction for him. He’s probably felt the pressure; that was very disappointing.”

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