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George Russell in practice in Mexico

Russell to take a gearbox penalty in Mexico

George Russell in practice in Mexico — Photo: © LAT Images

Russell to take a gearbox penalty in Mexico

Williams driver sat out nearly all of second practice

George Russell is set for a five-place grid penalty for the Mexico City Grand Prix after taking a new gearbox following problems in the second practice session.

Russell was the last of the 20 drivers to take to the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in FP2, and was quick to report a gearbox problem.

Initially, it appeared as if a rear body cover screw that had fallen out as Russell pulled out of the Williams garage may have been at fault.

But Williams soon dismissed the theory, insisting it was an internal gearbox issue that led to an investigation, confining Russell to the garage for the rest of the session.

The FIA has since confirmed Russell is to take a new gearbox for the remainder of the weekend, which will result in an automatic five-place grid drop.

Russell said: "I had a gearbox failure. Not ideal. It's only Friday. Points are awarded on Sunday."

Putting the gearbox issues aside, Russell added: "FP1 was a surprisingly good session for us. I had a good rhythm, showed some good race pace, and I think that's what it's all going to be about.

"This high altitude makes it difficult for the cooling, the brakes, the engine, so if we can be on top of that, we can be on the front foot for the race."

Despite his strong Saturday form this season, Russell will drop towards the rear of the grid where he will join Aston Martin's Lance Stroll and AlphaTauri's Yuki Tsunoda who have taken power unit penalties.

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