Williams disappointment over missed points proves "fire" in team

Russell, Alonso, Austria — Photo: © LAT Images

Williams

Williams disappointment over missed points proves "fire" in team

Russell was unable to hold off Alonso for 10th in Austria

Ian Parkes & Ewan Gale

Friday 9 July 2021 11:36

Williams team principal Jost Capito has revealed his delight in seeing members of the team feeling disappointed with 11th at the Austrian Grand Prix.

George Russell qualified a remarkable eighth for the team that is scoreless in two years of F1 racing but was unable to hold onto a point's position in the race, with the performances are a far cry from Williams' back-of-the-grid form since 2019.

Asked as to the post-race mood at the Red Bull Ring, Capito replied: "It was very disappointed.

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"I am very happy everyone was disappointed because four weeks ago, everyone would have triumphed for 11th place.

"The 12th in France was fantastic and now being disappointed with 11th shows the fire of the team and the enthusiasm the team has now.

"They want more, they are not happy with a result that doesn't deliver points and I think it is very important for the team to push on and even try harder."

Russell defence from Alonso was "fantastic"

In one of the highlights of the race, Russell defended frantically from the hard-charging Fernando Alonso in the much faster Alpine.

The two drivers battled side-by-side through turns four, five, six and seven before the two-time champion eventually made the move stick with three laps remaining.

"It was fantastic," said Capito of Russell's defence. "We were sure he couldn't keep him [behind] until the end because their car is much quicker.

"You could see when he [Alonso] finally passed George, how big he could open the gap and how quickly he could open the gap.

"Their car is quicker than our car and George did a fantastic job. These two put on a great show for all the spectators. It was really great to watch."