Russell's Pitlane Start: Mercedes' Strategy Under Spotlight

George Russell will begin the U.S. Grand Prix from the pitlane after overnight repairs to his Mercedes. Despite qualifying sixth, the crash required reverting to a previous car specification. Mercedes managed to score points in the sprint race, highlighting their resilience.

George Russell is set to start the U.S. Grand Prix from the pitlane as Mercedes scrambled overnight to fix his car after a qualifying crash. Despite managing to qualify sixth, the damage necessitated a reversion to the car's earlier specifications.

This shake-up in strategy also affects his team mate, the seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who moved to start 17th following Russell's pitlane placement and an engine penalty for RB's Liam Lawson, originally 15th.

Mercedes, who introduced significant car upgrades ahead of Austin, saw Russell finishing fifth and Hamilton sixth in Saturday's sprint race, ensuring they still picked up valuable points despite the setbacks.

(With inputs from agencies.)