George Russell brands Saudi Arabian F1 Grand Prix a "recipe for disaster"
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Williams driver George Russell has criticised the treacherous Jeddah circuit following a chaotic inaugural Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
The Formula One race had to be halted for two red flags and several more virtual safety cars due to the seemingly impossible-to-drive circuit which resulted in a number of crashes.
Among those was Mick Schumacher who retired on lap 13 due to a high-impact collision with the wall after going wide at Turn 22.
Another red flag was then waved by the marshals after contact between Charles LeClerc and Sergio Perez resulted in Russell having to retire, after being driven into from the back by Haas’ Nikita Mazepin.
Speaking after the race, Russell said: “It’s so difficult for all of the drivers. You go around the corner which is full gas and then suddenly there’s a car sideways and there’s tyre smoke everywhere, you don’t know what’s about to happen.
“A lot to learn I think from this weekend in terms of the circuits. Incredibly exhilarating, so fast and exciting to drive but lacking quite a lot from a safety and racing perspective.
“It was just chaos from Turn 3 to Turn 7, you couldn’t see anything. It’s a great track to drive but a bit of a recipe for disaster.
“A rethink is needed. And if we do come back here next year, there are some things that need to be modified.”
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Meanwhile, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton won the race despite several altercations and controversial moments with rival Max Verstappen.
The Brit was more complimentary of the circuit despite also highlighting its dangers.
Hamilton said after qualifying: “There’s a wall of champions everywhere here. It’s a really complex track and incredibly quick. It was intense but enjoyable. It’s definitely been a thrill.
“It was heart in mouth.”
Mercedes teammate Valtteri Bottas was able to finish third courtesy of a late move on Esteban Ocon, having previously exclaimed: “**** this track is cool.”
The track will return for next year’s calendar as the second Grand Prix, following the traditional Bahrain race.
- Charles LeClerc
- Lewis Hamilton
- Max Verstappen
- Formula One
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