F1 | Williams, George Russell: “Big disappointment, there was potential to get into Q2”

In Q2 there is only room for the fifteen fastest and someone must, inevitably, give way: this time it was also Williams' turn to stay out of the second qualifying session with both cars. Despite some flashes of speed during Q1, George Russell and Nicholas Latifi had to settle for seventeenth and eighteenth positions; behind them only Kimi Raikkonen and Nico Hulkenberg, called to replace Lance Stroll.

"I'm a bit disappointed: I think we could have got into Q2, putting together a perfect lap” these were Russell's words at the end of qualifying. The Briton has managed to get into Q2 five times this year.

"With these conditions, with the cold, it was really difficult; It's not easy to get these tires to the ideal temperature. During FP3 they performed well, the car was great, but we didn't find the same feeling in qualifying. It's a shame, because we were really close to making the cut for Q2 and I think we had the potential to make it. In normal circumstances we would know where we stand, so I'm excited for what the weather might bring tomorrow, let's hope it's changeable and brings a bit of chaos. It will be an interesting race, I'm ready to fight".

Similar feelings also for teammate Nicholas Latifi, eighteenth.

"I believe Q2 was within reach today. I'm not entirely happy with my attempts with the second and third set of tyres. It was a bit messy, with lock-ups here and there which ruined the timed lap, so I'm disappointed from that point of view. We made significant changes from FP3 to qualifying to improve the balance, and I believe we succeeded in our aim. I think tomorrow will be interesting regardless, there could be particular conditions, I'm looking forward to getting back on track".