Russell admits he needs luck as Antonelli focuses on the job

Mercedes driver George Russell has admitted he will need luck to beat his teammate and series leader Kimi Antonelli in the drivers' championship. Despite the 66-point gap between them, Russell made it clear he hasn't given up hope. Speaking at the new Madring circuit ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix, Russell said, like Antonelli, he's not thinking about the title race but focused on improving his own performances race by race.

Antonelli, who won his home race at Monza last Sunday, reiterated that he was ignoring title talk to focus on racing. Russell, 66 points adrift, had clearly recovered his poise after his loss to Antonelli after starting from pole. He believes his strong performances in the last two races, as well as his qualification and race pace in those races, show his progression.