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Hamilton's opinion on Russell unchanged after front row performance

Lewis Hamilton will start the Belgian GP from third on the grid, with George Russell surprising the field by registering the second fastest time.

George Russell managed to put his Williams car on the front row of the grid for the Belgian Grand Prix, but Lewis Hamilton isn't surprised given the kind of performances he's been delivering all season. Hamilton will start Sunday's race at Spa-Francorchamps on the second row after Max Verstappen took pole position ahead of Russell in rainy conditions. Russell is competing with Valtteri Bottas for the second Mercedes seat next season, though Hamilton says Saturday's result doesn't change his opinion. "I don't feel any different," Hamilton told RacingNews365.com and other members of the media. "George has been doing a great job all year. "This doesn't really change anything, really. I'm sure he's got pressure on him, just as Valtteri does to do the job, and it's great to see him delivering." Lando Norris crashed heavily during Q3, though the Briton has been given the all-clear to take part in tomorrow's race . Hamilton noted that it was a tricky session for all the drivers. "It was difficult for everyone," Hamilton added. "These guys [Verstappen and Russell] did a great job in the final stages of Q3. "I think my first lap [was] OK, but [it was] just difficult for everyone. "I'm really happy to see Lando is OK, he was looking incredibly quick. I think he would probably be here with us, or even squeeze me out. He had some great pace today."

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RESULTS 2024 F1 Chinese Grand Prix - Sprint Shootout