Russell says P3 was on the cards after Miami GP Qualifying

Russell was asked whether P5 was the best he could achieve: “It’s never the most you can do. I think P3 was on the cards.” He admitted that he has always struggled with the track in Miami and reminded that last year Antonelli was on pole for the Sprint race and he was P5 which is the same situation as today.

“It’s not really a major cause for concern, it’s just I know this is a real struggle for me – low grip, really hot temperatures,” he added. When asked if Red Bull, Ferrari and McLaren in front could aid his cause on Sunday by taking the fight to Antonelli, Russell said: “Potentially, but I don’t really know, to be honest. Tomorrow, who knows what the weather will bring. It’ll be interesting.”

Russell managed to cut Antonelli’s championship lead from nine points to seven in the Sprint race as Antonelli suffered a slow start and later was penalised for exceeding track limits.