George Russell explains Bahrain DRS error as penalty threat looms

George Russell has explained the drag reduction system (DRS) issue that has led to an investigation from the stewards following the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Russell ended the race in second place as he continued his strong start to the season with his third podium in four races.

However, the Mercedes driver is facing a stewards' investigation after his DRS allegedly opened during the grand prix in a zone where it was not permitted.

Russell will visit the stewards at 8:45 PM local time where he will offer a defence of his case with a team representative.

Speaking after the grand prix, Russell claimed the DRS opened after he hit the radio button - but asserted he gave back the time gained by lifting off the throttle. 

“We were having all sorts of failures, we did an override on the DRS and on one lap, I clicked the radio button and the DRS opened,” Russell explained.

“So straight away I closed it again, backed off and [there was] nothing gained. I lost more than I gained. 

“It was only open for a split second, it goes to show the amount of issues we were having.”

Russell detailed the extent of his woes went far beyond his DRS concerns and suggested the chequered flag came just in time to keep Norris behind.

“It felt all under control for a moment and then suddenly we had a brake-by-wire failure,” he added.

“So suddenly the pedal was going long and then it was going short, and I didn't know what was going on. 

“The steering wheel wasn't working properly, so it was really hard to keep Lando behind. I think one more lap, he would have got me pretty comfortably.”