Russell hails Miami circuit after completing first laps

George Russell has hailed the new Miami circuit after completing his first simulator run during his visit to the city last week.

The Williams driver visited the site surrounding Miami Dolphins' Hard Rock Stadium between the United States and Mexico City Grands Prix.

Miami makes its debut on the F1 calendar next May as the sport aims to capitalise on the increased exposure it has seen in the US in the wake of Netflix's 'Drive to Survive' docu-series, the result of which could be seen with the near-400,000 strong crowd in Austin two weeks ago.

The race is already set for a complete 80,000 sell-out on each of the three days, with the demand for tickets far in excess of capacity.

Providing his initial feelings after his trip, the soon-to-be Mercedes driver explained: "Exciting to be honest.

"Miami is a really cool city, I think it will be an amazing weekend, as it was in Austin.

"The street-style circuit with long straights will offer some good overtaking opportunities. I actually managed to do some laps on a simulator that they had which was nice."

Explaining the moment he arrived, Russell added: "I didn't realise it but I was standing on one of the straights when I walked into the stadium.

"Obviously it is still in its early stages of development but what they showed me in the plans and everything is really exciting.

"As I said, I drove in the simulator and that was a really pleasant experience. It was fast and flowing and it has some really tight corners and some really long straights which I think will offer some good overtaking opportunities.

"From a circuit that is quite defined by the limitations of its surroundings, I think they have done a really good job."

Looking good for 2022, Miami. ? pic.twitter.com/UghRx5Vbgj

— George Russell (@GeorgeRussell63) October 27, 2021

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