George Russell ended Friday practice at the Canadian Grand Prix on a high, topping the timesheets and sending a clear message ahead of qualifying. The Mercedes driver put in a standout lap on the Medium tyre in FP2 — a result he welcomed but downplayed with characteristic realism.
“We came into this weekend expecting the track and conditions to suit us,” Russell said. “Cooler air and smooth tarmac usually bring our car into a more competitive window, and today that seemed to be the case.”
Despite finishing first in FP2, Russell was cautious not to overstate Mercedes’ advantage, noting that many teams — including his own — only used one set of Medium tyres, likely saving Softs for Saturday. “The Soft and Medium tyres are closer than usual in terms of single-lap performance,” he explained, pointing out the strategic uncertainty this creates for qualifying.
Speaking about his performance, Russell added:
“My lap felt strong. We maximised everything — full engine mode, clean execution. There really wasn’t anything left in it.”
Russell also acknowledged Mercedes’ ongoing sensitivity to ambient temperatures. “We know we struggle when it’s hot, but in cooler conditions, the tyres stay in the right window and we’re much more competitive,” he said.
With qualifying just hours away and air temperatures expected to remain favorable, Russell appears to be in contention for pole — though he insists the job is far from done.
