Russell: A ‘few issues’ limited Mercedes running

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George Russell

George Russell has revealed there were a “few issues” which “limited” his time in the Mercedes W09 in Hungary, but is still pleased with performance.

The Mercedes junior driver and current F2 World Championship leader finished bottom of the lap charts and was the only man not to surpass the half-century mark with 49 timed laps on the board at the Hungaroring.

But, whilst there were minor setbacks on the first day of testing for the Silver Arrows, Russell was blown away with how quick the car is.

“It was fantastic to get back out behind the Mercedes car,” Russell summarised.

“It’s unbelievable how quick and how much grip this car has got. Just an unbelievable experience to get back there.

“We had a few issues which limited our running but nevertheless it was a good day for myself.

“I was pleased with my performance and I think the team got some valuable information in the limited laps we did. 

Russell has been linked with a move to Williams for the 2019 season and is eager to make the most of every opportunity that comes his way.

He added: “I think F1 time is very limited for a young driver so it’s always extremely important to make the most of that chance when you have it.

“Obviously the more I can get the better but I think it will not be the end of the world if we had another day like today because I believe there will be more opportunities in the future.

“It’s just part of the game really, you can’t predict the weather, you can’t always get it perfect from the team’s point of view and F1 is so complex and it’s incredible there’s not more issues in the whole championship so it just goes to show the level everybody runs at.”

Russell, who finished the day in P5, is back for a second day of testing action for Mercedes on Wednesday.