George Russell’s face says it all as Mercedes suffer testing nightmare

George Russell was left looking utterly despondent after his Mercedes car suffered hydraulics failure during the second day of testing in Bahrain ahead of the new F1 season on Friday. The superstar driver was forced to get out of his vehicle after it came to a halt on the track.

Russell impressed during his first season with Mercedes last year, despite being forced to contend with porpoising issues during some races. The 25-year-old outshone his more experienced team-mate Lewis Hamilton for much of the season and finished fourth in the Drivers’ Championship standing, two places ahead of the seven-time world champion.

The duo have been tipped to enjoy a much-improved season on the track this time around, with Mercedes undertaking extensive work over the winter to ensure their car performs better. But on Friday, Russell was dealt a blow when his car got stuck in gear four on Turn four.

Russell told Sky Sports that he was advised to go back to the garage and not change gear on the way as his team got ready to get to the bottom of the issue. But the ace only made it to Turn 10 before his car stopped. The broadcaster speculated that the problem could have been caused by a sensor issue. And when they asked Russell if everything was alright, the driver replied: “I’d rather be in the car.”

MORE TO FOLLOW

We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.

For the latest news and breaking news visit: express.co.uk/sport/football. Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter @dexpress_sport – the official Daily Express & Express.co.uk Twitter account – providing real news in real time.

We’re also on Facebook @dailyexpresssport – offering your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day to like, comment and share from the Daily Express, Sunday Express and Express.co.uk.