Russell agony: Mercedes driver out in Q2

George Russell was agonisingly knocked out of Azerbaijan Grand Prix qualifying with Mercedes struggling for pace.

The Briton is set to start Sunday's race at the Baku City Circuit from 11th on the grid after qualifying 0.004s slower than teammate Lewis Hamilton during the second stage of the session.

Russell was troubled by brake issues during the solitary practice session for the weekend, ending the morning 17th fastest, and the pace never threatened to return to the levels that saw him challenge the Red Bull's in Australia last time out.

The hurt for Russell will come from the fact that both Aston Martins and both McLarens found suitable improvement on their runs to outpace the W14.

Russell said over team radio: "Ah sugar, we don't have the pace this weekend guys. Another chance tomorrow."

Q2 ran without delay after a dramatic 46-minute opening stage blighted by two red flags, following crashes for Pierre Gasly and Nyck de Vries.