The Canadian GP’s qualifying session saw some exciting action as Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso stole the headlines. Meanwhile, George Russell took a gamble in Q3 to match the front runners. Unfortunately, this gamble did not benefit him as he only finished P8.

The Briton was 6th when he entered the pits to change to slick tires with little time remaining. However, he struggled for grip during his outlap and spun into the barriers in turn 2. Although it was a brave call to gain track position, Russell was left wondering what the result could have been if he stayed on the intermediate tires.

The frustrated Mercedes driver revealed on the radio that he wanted to challenge the top 3. After the qualifying, he said, “I don’t want to set up for P4, P5, P6. I wanted to go for it. Race is tomorrow. Nice one, I think we had good pace, could have been up there.”

However, Russell backed his decision and believes he can capitalize during the race. “High risk, high reward, I think it was literally just turn one. Had that been as dry as other corners we could have been in a really good place. I’m surprised my lap was still only half a second away from P4, it shows we had really strong pace today,” he added.

READ MORE: How Poor Mercedes F1 Timing Cost Lewis Hamilton a Front Row Start at Canadian GP

At the same time, his teammate Lewis Hamilton enjoyed a strong session as he ended up P4. With a dry track predicted on Sunday, Mercedes will hope to repeat this performance.

Max Verstappen reflects on the gamble taken by George Russell

The pole-sitter, Max Verstappen, was in high spirits after a dominating qualifying performance. And he believes Russel took the wrong call, as the track was still damp.

The Dutchman stated, “It was just too wet in some places, like Turn 1, Turn 2. I think out of 4 all the way into 5, into 6. So, for me, it was never on.”

Nevertheless, Russell has shown incredible consistency throughout the season. He has also capitalized on any errors from the top two teams and sits 4th in the standings with only 17 points behind Leclerc. However, his streak of finishing in the top 5 in every race this season could be in danger.

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The Canadian GP has proved to be an unpredictable race in the past. And with the likes of Ocon, Schumacher, and Magnussen ahead of him, the Brit will look to overtake them early in the race. Where do you think Russell will finish on Sunday? Let us know in the comments.