Russell attributes Las Vegas pole position to power nap strategy

LAS VEGAS – George Russell discovered that the remedy to the grueling Las Vegas Grand Prix schedule came in the form of a rejuvenating power nap, which he credits for his pole-setting performance on Saturday night. As drivers battled disoriented sleep patterns due to the 10 p.m. local start time for qualifying, Russell's 45-minute nap emerged as the key to peak alertness and focus.

Explaining his unusual routine, Russell said, "I took a nap before qualifying, woke up a little bit drowsy, and then made sure I was in peak condition come the end of qualifying." Despite the collective challenge faced by the jet-lagged grid, the Mercedes driver seemed to capitalize on his rest, stating, "It's really difficult, but we're all in the same boat."

Russell provided further details into his pre-race relaxation techniques, including meditation and "box breathing," emphasizing adaptability as crucial under the unique circumstances in Vegas. "It's just adapting every single weekend," he reflected. "For me, just sleeping when I can is working for me."

Mercedes, having led every practice session leading up to qualifying, were expected to face their usual drop in performance relative to the rest of the field. However, Russell secured his third pole of the season, delivering Mercedes' first since the British Grand Prix in July and expressing his satisfaction with the result. "Incredibly satisfying," Russell remarked, aware that his team's previous weekend dominance bore no weight in Q3.

When queried about the unexpected pace Mercedes demonstrated, Russell said, "I'd love to tell you, to be honest. It's been a real surprise for all of us." He highlighted the need to understand why the Vegas track conditions and layout favored their car, despite not making Vegas-specific adaptations.

Although a front-row lockout seemed a possibility, Lewis Hamilton could not match his teammate's performance, ending up 10th after Q3, citing changes in the car's behavior and his inability to execute the perfect laps. Hamilton, bound for Ferrari, looked past his own shortcomings, focusing on the positives for they team. "George is on pole and it's great for the team. It's not a stinger," Hamilton expressed, demonstrating a forward-thinking mindset and highlighting the potential to exploit his pace in the upcoming races.

With Russell's unexpected pole position, intrigue surrounds Mercedes' performance as they surge toward the Las Vegas Grand Prix, imbuing the night race with an additional spark of competitiveness.

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