Hitech GP driver George Russell made his debut at the historic Macau Grand Prix for the 63rd running of the event, competing to win the FIA F3 World Cup. 

After putting his Mercedes-Benz powered Dallara machine on Pole Position for the Qualification race, Russell came home 7th overall in the main Grand Prix event, as a bit of race pace eluded the team to challenge for top honours in the event.

George Russell “I went into this weekend with the intention to be fully focussing on Q2, which is what I did, but I was well down the order in the earlier sessions, I have to admit that I was slightly worried. After the morning’s free practice, we made some changes on the car that worked out very well. I did a really good lap that secured me pole position, but on the next lap, I managed to pull one of the best laps of my life out of the bag! I couldn’t imagine to be on top after the start of the event we had. " said a jubilant Russell after qualifying.

Starting from Pole Position in the Qualification race (Race one) Russell was slipstreamed by his rivals into turn one at Lisboa, emerging in 3rd position around the tight street circuit. From there it was a matter of staying in touch and pounce on any mistakes infront. Sadly his Hitech GP machine seemed to lack a bit of ultimate pace, as Russell finished in 5th position to the flag.

Lining up 5th on the grid for the Grand Prix race, where the FIA F3 World Cup Champion would be crowned. Russell got away well for the long draft into turn one - emerging in 6th position at the end of the opening lap, stuck in a three car fight for 4th position.

A red flag was brought out after 5 laps which bunched the field up for a couple of tours. With the accident cleared and the race resumed - the fight for 4th resumed. With a couple of laps to go this group became four cars. Russell dropped to 7th after being out dragged down the straight - which is where he finished.

George Russell “Not overly pleased with P7 in the GP considering the potential after qualifying. We just lacked a bit of overall race pace for whatever reason - but what an experience Macau has been" said a reflective Russell post race.

Russell's 2017 plans are due to be announced in the coming weeks, stay tuned for more details!

Images: FotoFormulaK