George Russell issues 'under no illusions' Mercedes verdict

George Russell has claimed Mercedes is "under no illusions" over the performance of the W16, despite a strong result in the Canadian Grand Prix.

The British driver took his fourth career win at the round in Montreal whilst team-mate Kimi Antonelli secured his maiden F1 podium finish, in third.

Nonetheless, the 27-year-old is well aware of how the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve suited his car, even if temperatures were hotter than anticipated - the Mercedes typically prefers cooler conditions to thrive.

12 months ago, Russell took pole position, as he also did this time around, but failed to convert it into victory, a triumph he has since felt he let slip away.

However, after getting it right the second time around, the Mercedes driver shared his surprise at the pace and consistency he enjoyed over the 70-lap race. 

"I was, to be honest," Russell told media including, RacingNews365, when asked about that. "There wasn't much tyre overheating even though it was hot.

"It's a very smooth tarmac here in Canada. There are quite low speed corners, so the tyres aren't under much stress.

"I think we expected a bit more tyre overheating considering the track temperature, but we're under no illusions that this really suited the strengths of our car the same way as it did last year."

Despite the result, Russell does not believe Mercedes has made a breakthrough in similar climatic conditions. However, he was keen to underline how clinical the team had been when presented an opportunity.

"But for the majority of the circuits, we know it's a bit of a challenge, and that's why this is the first weekend both of us are on the podium," he said.

"But it's great to see that when we get that chance, we take it."