Russell snatches controversial pole in Austria after Verstappen crash

George Russell demonstrated his experience and a detailed understanding of the rules on Saturday to steer through a controversial final flying lap and seize pole position for Sunday’s Austrian Grand Prix.

The Mercedes driver, who struggled on Friday as team-mate and championship leader Kimi Antonelli set the pace in practice, bounced back by topping final practice and then grabbing pole after Max Verstappen crashed in his Red Bull.

The four-time champion’s accident — he was unhurt after hitting the barriers at Turn Nine — prompted waved single yellow flags that Russell knew he should lift off briefly for while others behind him, including Italian teenager Antonelli, mistakenly believed they were double yellows and aborted their laps.

This meant Russell lost time, but not his lap as he outpaced both Ferraris to secure his fourth pole of the season and 11th of his career, leaving Antonelli lamenting his error of judgement.

“The lap was unbelievable,” said British driver Russell, who was immediately behind Verstappen on track when he crashed.