Breaking:Russell reiterates McLaren claim with…read more 

Breaking:Russell reiterates McLaren claim with…read more

Despite Max Verstappen beating McLaren to victory in the Japanese Grand Prix, George Russell is still insisting the Woking squad has the measure on the F1 competition.

Russell reiterates McLaren claim with ominous temperature warning

Despite Max Verstappen beating McLaren to victory in the Japanese Grand Prix, George Russell is still insisting the Woking squad has the measure on the F1 competition.

George Russell has doubled down on his stance that McLaren comfortably has the best package in F1 at the moment, arguing the Woking squad will “excel” in the coming rounds.

The championship heads to warmer climates after three cool weekends to start the season in Australia, China and Japan.

With the gulf nations of Bahrain and Saudi Arabian playing host to the final two legs of the current triple header, Russell believes the papaya team will be in its element.

The British driver caused a stir with compatriot Lando Norris at the first grand prix of this campaign, claiming McLaren could win every race this year without further developing its car, something his fellow Briton shut down.

That is a feat no longer possible after Max Verstappen clinched victory for Red Bull at Suzuka, but Russell still expects McLaren to come back swinging as the temperature rises.

“I don’t think we’ve seen the best of McLaren yet,” the Mercedes driver said on Sky Sports F1. “It’s been three cold races. We’re wearing jackets here, and last week [in China].

“I think when we go to Bahrain, 35 degrees, and Saudi, 30, 35 degrees, I think that’s where we’re going to see those guys excel.

“And we know we’ve always been pretty strong in the cooler conditions, so I’m keeping my feet on the ground. It’s been a great first three races, 21 to go. It’s still early days.”