George Russell braving the rain in Canada.
George Russell could line up in a wet pole position box at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve with a 60 per cent chance of thunderstorms at the start of Sunday’s 70-lap race.
The Canadian Grand Prix posed a challenge for Formula 1 drivers as they had to face the looming possibility of rain, with Friday experiencing the most severe weather conditions.
The forecast is for a wet Canadian Grand Prix
But while it was mostly dry for Saturday’s qualifying, where George Russell bagged pole position ahead of Max Verstappen, a few drops did fall to make for tricky conditions.
According to the Met Office’s forecast, Sunday might experience more than just a few drops of rain.
The possibility of rain rises during midday, reaching 60 percent at 2pm as the drivers commence the 70-lap Grand Prix. Further rainfall is predicted for the afternoon and evening.
The highest temperature of the day will reach only 19°C, accompanied by a westerly wind featuring gusts of 28mph.
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“Of course, let’s go for it,” Russell confidently replied when questioned about his ability to secure his and Mercedes’ first victory since 2022.
The car has been feeling incredible lately. Ever since we introduced some upgrades in Monaco, we have truly entered the competition and are determined to give it our all!
Russell finds himself up against stiff competition from the drivers trailing him, as Verstappen takes his place in second, having posted an identical time as Russell in Q3. Meanwhile, Lando Norris secures the third position.
He expressed his appreciation for Montreal despite the ongoing possibility of rain on Sunday, stating, “This is what makes Montreal special, and why we adore being here. It’s undoubtedly one of the top destinations every year. Personally, I absolutely love it. That’s why we’re all wearing smiles and enjoying ourselves.”
“It can be quite challenging… There are moments when you anticipate crashing through half of it, but when you manage to execute a great lap and secure a position in the top three, it always brings a pleasant sensation.”
When questioned about his ability to surpass Verstappen and Russell to secure victory, he playfully remarked, “Sure, just two overtakes! Piece of cake! Nah, I’m genuinely eager to witness our potential.”
“The car has performed exceptionally well throughout the entire season, particularly in the last three or four races where we have been on an impressive winning streak. However, there are two exceptionally skilled drivers ahead of us and numerous talented drivers trailing behind, so we are determined to deliver an exciting and captivating performance.”
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