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George Russell, Australia

Russell OUT with fiery Mercedes Australian GP failure

George Russell, Australia — Photo: © LAT Images

Russell OUT with fiery Mercedes Australian GP failure

Russell had led during the early stages of the Australian Grand Prix

George Russell retired from the Australian Grand Prix with a reported power unit failure on lap 18.

The Mercedes driver endured a torrid race after the early high of taking the lead from Max Verstappen into the first corner.

After looking assured at the front - even with Lewis Hamilton and Verstappen behind him - Russell's race began its downward spiral when Alex Albon caused an early safety car period after crashing at turn six.

Taking the opportunity for a cheap pit stop, Russell had boxed for fresh hard tyres but when the red flags were shown just one lap later and his rivals were granted a tyre change without any cost, this masterstroke appeared less impressive.

Making the most of a bad situation, Russell climbed back up to fourth after the race resumed but, at the end of lap 18, the Briton reported a PU failure.

This was evidenced by a stream of smoke and flames that trailed his car as he came to a stop on the pit straight.

Russell was the third retiree of the race, joining Albon and Charles Leclerc on the sidelines.

FOLLOW LIVE: Australian GP LIVE: RED FLAG in Melbourne after Albon crash

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