Russell given Austria grid penalty for Kvyat block

The FIA has confirmed that George Russell will receive a three-place grid penalty for the Austrian Grand Prix for impeding Daniil Kvyat during qualifying.

As Kvyat was storming round the track in a late attempt to make it out of Q1, he sped round Turn 9 only to be confronted by the Williams of Russell, who would later confirm that he did not know, and was not notified by his team, that there was a quick Toro Rosso incoming.

As a result, Kvyat was forced to act quickly and venture wide off the tarmac, with the time lost ultimately costing him his place in Q2.

Breaking: Williams Racing driver George Russell has been handed a 5 place grid penalty for impeding Kvyat. Next case that stewards will see is Hamilton and Raikkonen #F1 #AustrianGP pic.twitter.com/1YKhb8nlph

— Tim Hauraney (@timhauraney) June 29, 2019

Kvyat was clearly angered by the incident, and said over team radio:

“What the f***? Was that?! I almost killed him!”

Close call with Kvyat. #Radio #F1 #AustrianGP pic.twitter.com/cyA5k3flTK

— Matt Archuleta (@indy44) June 29, 2019

Russell subsequently apologised for the incident, writing on Twitter:

“Happy with my lap but a shame how Quali ended.

“Apologies for ruining your lap @kvyatofficial - I had no idea you were coming.”