Russell dedicates podium to Mercedes after 'survival race'

George Russell has dedicated his podium finish to Mercedes after the team showcased their clear progress at Spanish Grand Prix.

He and Hamilton were able to finish in third and fifth, despite Hamilton having suffered a puncture on Lap 1 of 66 that left him at the back of the field.

Russell went wheel-to-wheel with the Red Bulls of Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez before crossing the line behind them for his third career podium.

When asked if Mercedes, lifted by their new upgrades, are now back in the fight, Russell said: "I'd love to say that, but today was very tough.

"I gave everything I could to hold Max off, but he did an amazing job.

"I'm just so proud to be standing here, because the guys have worked so hard, so this one is for the guys back at Brackley and Brixworth."

Mercedes all smiles but race was not without problems

Following Charles Leclerc's sudden retirement from the race lead, Mercedes were at one stage on course for a P3 and P4 before their drivers were asked to "lift and coast" during the final laps. That allowed Carlos Sainz to breeze past Hamilton on the final lap.

But, given Hamilton's epic recovery drive, the team were pleased to leave with an extra 25 points on the board.

"When I had the Red Bulls in my mirrors, all I was doing was my maximum to keep them behind, and it was an enjoyable good couple of laps," continued Russell.

"I'm just pleased to be able to bring it home in P3. It's a lot of points on the board for us. Well done to Max, he did a great job.

"It was very difficult in the last few laps. It was a survival race."