George Russell draws damning conclusion after qualifying struggle

George Russell does not believe a podium finish at the Brazilian Grand Prix is on the cards after qualifying in sixth place.

Russell struggled for pace throughout the session in São Paulo and was heard voicing confusion on the root of his struggles over team radio.

The Briton ended the session in sixth place, while team-mate Kimi Antonelli starred to a spot on the front row of the grid.

While Russell is hopeful he can make up some places before the chequered flag, he ruled himself out of a podium finish.

“I hope we can move forward, I'm confident we can move forward,” he told Sky F1. 

“But we’ve obviously got Piastri there, he’ll be pretty quick. Charles is maybe the unknown. 

“But realistically, to get on the podium, at least from my side, I don’t think we have the pace this weekend.”

However, Russell took solace in knowing his day could have been worse as he pointed to the similar woes faced by Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen, who qualified 13th and 16th respectively.

“On days like this when the tyres aren’t working one driver’s driving just can get the tyres switched on and another driver’s driving doesn’t,” he said. 

“This has been probably one of the more obscure qualifying sessions of the year.

“Kimi has done a great job all weekend to be honest, so credit to him, but it obviously was a very odd session.”