George Russell: 'The Pace Was Rubbish' After Struggling in Austin F1 Race Behind Kimi Antonelli

George Russell delivered a blunt self-assessment after the United States Grand Prix in Austin, admitting his pace was 'rubbish' as he finished well behind race-winning Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli. The British driver was at a loss to explain the significant gap to his teammate, who took victory at the Circuit of the Americas. Russell's struggles come at a critical point in the Formula 1 season, raising questions about Mercedes' internal dynamics and Russell's form. With Antonelli's breakthrough win, the pressure is now on Russell to respond in the next race. For Mercedes, the contrast in performance between its two drivers is both a positive sign of the car's potential and a puzzle to solve. Russell will need to quickly diagnose his lack of pace to avoid falling further behind in the championship standings.