George Russell

Miami GP hot lap simulation with George Russell

Kevin Peterson02 mins

Williams driver George Russell has given a glimpse into the Miami Grand Prix circuit due to make its F1 debut next season. Russell recently visited the Hard Rock Stadium, home to Miami Dolphins American football team, around which the 19-turn, 5.41km Miami International Autodrome will be laid out for the May 6-8 event. FIA race director Michael Masi recently dismissed concern the grand prix would resemble others in the United States in the past and be nothing more than a race around a car park. Russell, however, was suitably impressed after conducting a number of laps on a simulator, describing it as “really, really cool”. “[There are] Lots of fast-flowing sections, I feel there will be plenty of overtaking opportunities as well but also a real street vibe with some tight and twisty corners,” added Russell, speaking in a video on Williams’ YouTube channel. “It will be really interesting to see how we get on when we come here next year but so far so good.” Watch George Russell’s simulation tour in Miami Circuit here..

Russell handed a five-place grid penalty after gearbox change

Kevin Peterson03 mins

George Russell is set for a five-place grid penalty for the Mexican GP after taking a new gearbox following problems in the second practice session. Russell was the last of the 20 drivers to take to the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in FP2, and was quick to report a gearbox problem. Initially, it appeared as if a rear body cover screw that had fallen out as Russell pulled out of the Williams garage may have been at fault. But Williams soon dismissed the theory, insisting it was an internal gearbox issue that led to an investigation, confining Russell to the garage for the rest of the session. The FIA has since confirmed Russell is to take a new gearbox for the remainder of the weekend, which will result in an automatic five-place grid drop. Russell said: “I had a gearbox failure. Not ideal. It’s only Friday. Points are awarded on Sunday.” Putting the gearbox issues aside, Russell added: “FP1 was a surprisingly good session for us. I had a good rhythm, showed some good race pace, and I think that’s what it’s all going to be about. “This high altitude makes it difficult for the cooling, the brakes, the engine, so if we can be on top of that, we can be on the front foot for the race.” Despite his strong Saturday form this season, Russell will drop towards the rear of the grid where he will join Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll and AlphaTauri’s Yuki Tsunoda who have taken power unit penalties.