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Jolyon Palmer has pointed out a new issue for Mercedes after claiming they have finally learnt ‘how to start’ a Formula 1 race.
On Saturday, George Russell took Sprint victory ahead of Lando Norris and Kimi Antonelli. However, the victory was slightly marred by an incident involving the two Mercedes teammates.
Antonelli accused Russell of pushing him off the track and had to be told to concentrate by Toto Wolff via the team radio.
Later on in the day, qualifying for Sunday’s Grand Prix took place, with Russell taking pole position ahead of Antonelli and Norris.
Coming into the weekend, Mercedes had not led in the opening lap, but that streak was broken after Russell managed to lead the Sprint from start to finish.
George Russell snatches pole away from Kimi Antonelli at the Canadian GP! Will we see sparks fly at turn one?
Jolyon Palmer says Mercedes have finally learnt ‘how to start’ an F1 race
Speaking on F1TV, ex-Renault driver Palmer claimed that Mercedes have finally learnt ‘how to start’ a race, but also said that as a result, track position will now become a new issue that needs to be addressed.
He also claimed that it is nice to see some action between Russell and Antonelli amid their title battle.
Palmer said: “Mercedes have learnt how to start, which means that getting that track position will become important to them. Russell is the man to beat still over one lap – he had his elbows out earlier on.
“I like that there’s a little bit more angst between the teammates as well. This is how title rivals should act with one another.”
Four tenths separated the top eight in qualifying for the Canadian Grand Prix! Is a podium on the cards for Lewis Hamilton?
READ MORE: Mercedes’ Canadian GP Sprint battle exposed intra-team title fight issue McLaren never faced in 2025
George Russell had a ‘good chat’ with Kimi Antonelli following dramatic Sprint incident
Following the qualifying session, Russell revealed that he and Antonelli have ‘had a good chat’ on the back of their coming together during the Sprint.
As reported by Sky Sports, Russell said: “We had a good chat since the Sprint. We are both racing drivers. We both know what to do, we both respect one another.
“We will go racing and hope it’s just a battle between the two of us but we saw how competitive everyone was today.
“And tomorrow looks to be wet which will be a whole new challenge, so it’s not what we are thinking about. We just want to ensure we are on the top step.”
Looking ahead, Russell has the chance to cut the current 18-point gap between himself and Antonelli by winning the Canadian Grand Prix on Sunday.
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