George Russell: Tops FP1 in Austria

Russell has topped the timesheets during Friday's opening practice session ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix, the Mercedes driver continuing his run of good form as he led the way from Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri, Formula1.com reports.

Analysis:

The Canadian Grand Prix winner carried that momentum into this first practice of the Austrian Grand Prix weekend. Russell led the early part of this practice and he would post a lap of 1:05.542 near the end to capture the top of the timesheets. The Mercedes star would edge Verstappen by just 0.065-seconds to lead the way on soft tyres. Russell has the early pace on the Red Bull Ring and looks like a strong contender to win Sunday in Austria.