Russell ecstatic after ‘picking up the pieces’ from Verstappen/Norris collision to claim second Grand Prix win

George Russell was full of smiles after taking a surprise victory in the Austrian Grand Prix, having “been there at the end” to capitalise on a huge moment of drama involving long-time leaders Max Verstappen and Lando Norris.

Russell was running third to the Red Bull and McLaren drivers when they clashed at Turn 3 on Lap 64 of 71, sending Norris out of the race with damage and dropping Verstappen down to fifth via a puncture and time penalty.

READ MORE: Russell claims surprise win in Austria after Verstappen and Norris dramatically collide in battle for the lead

With Russell next in line, the Mercedes man assumed the lead and maintained it over Oscar Piastri and Carlos Sainz to the flag, giving both the driver and team their first triumph since the 2022 Sao Paulo Grand Prix.

“Yeah, incredible,” Russell said after hopping out of the car. “I think it was a tough fight out there at the beginning of the race just to hold onto that P3.

“I saw on the TV that Max and Lando were going pretty hard [in their battle for the lead]. I knew Lando would want to try and get that race win.

AS IT HAPPENED: All the action from the 2024 Austrian Grand Prix

“But the team have done an amazing job to get us in this fight. You’ve got be there at the end to pick up the pieces, and that’s where we were!”

He continued: “I couldn’t believe actually how close were were to Lando and Max, I think it was only about 12, 13 seconds behind [before the incident]. I knew it was a possibility, you’re always dreaming.

“As I say, just so proud to be back on the top step. The team have worked so hard, we’ve made so many strides since the start of the season. The last three races have been incredible, so more to come!”

Russell is hopeful that Mercedes can continue their recent upward trajectory as he heads into his home Grand Prix week at Silverstone.

TREMAYNE: The story of the one-win-wonder who crashed moments after taking victory in Austria

“I think we’re riding a bit of a wave at the moment,” he said, having claimed pole position and finished third in Canada, and then fourth last time out in Spain. “These last three races have been incredible.

“I think realistically we probably could have won the race in Canada so this probably makes up for one too many mistakes my side there, and I’m just really proud to be back on the top step.”