MOTOR RACING: Russell aims for Montreal rebound as Mercedes brings key upgrade

MONTREAL — George Russell is urging calm ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, despite the possibility of his Mercedes teammate, Kimi Antonelli, claiming a fourth consecutive Formula One win.

Russell, who sits 20 points behind the championship leader, arrives at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve as Mercedes introduces its first major upgrade of the season, following developments from McLaren and Ferrari in Miami.

"It's just another race for me, and the championship isn’t even on my mind," Russell told reporters on Thursday. "There's no need to panic at all. We’re only four races in, with at least 18 more to go."

Commenting on the upgrades, the Briton said, "Our numbers look pretty promising. But until we drive it on track, there are always going to be a few unknowns."

Russell also highlighted that race starts remain Mercedes’ weakest point, though he acknowledged improvements are unlikely to happen immediately.

"The starts are a big focus for us because that's clearly our biggest weak point," he said. "Short-term, it’s going to be difficult to make major gains."

Mercedes is optimistic that Montreal will provide a stronger platform than Miami. Russell cited the team’s recent performance at the circuit and the track’s layout.

"The last two years, this track has suited our car more," he said. "It doesn’t guarantee a win this year, but it’s a track I like for its flow."

Antonelli, 19, enters Canada as the championship leader after a stunning start to the season and will aim for a fourth straight Formula One victory. If successful, he would join Fernando Alonso, Lewis Hamilton, and Max Verstappen as the only active drivers to have won four consecutive races.

"Definitely, I did not expect such a strong start to the season, but I’m not complaining," Antonelli said. "I try to focus race by race, not thinking too much about the championship. But of course, I’m aware of my current position."

-Reporting by Angelica Medina in Montreal; Editing by Kim Coghill/Reuters