George Russell is eager to put the memory of Imola well behind him with a strong Turkish Grand Prix.
The Williams driver saw a possible first points finish in Formula 1 slip away after crashing behind the Safety Car while running 10th, leaving the Briton inconsolable afterwards.
But now Russell sees an opportunity to make things up with his team at Istanbul Park.
“I am excited to get back racing in Turkey, and for the challenge of driving at a new circuit,” said the 22-year-old.
“It has been good to have a week off to reflect on what happened at Imola and learn from my mistake.
Also Read:
“The recent performance from the car has been really encouraging and I am looking forward to seeing what we can achieve.
“Overall, I am feeling stronger and prepared to fight back this weekend.”
After the race almost two weeks ago, Romain Grosjean was among the first to send a message of support on Instagram to Russell.
“I know how painful it is to crash under a Safety Car period – especially when it’s going to be your first point of the season,” he said. “I believe it was the same for me at Baku in 2018.
“In the lower part of the field, you really need to work the tyres a lot. I’ve said it many times, if I was doing Baku again, I’d probably do the same thing as I did three seasons ago.
“George didn’t do anything crazy, but he just lost the car. It was a tough day for him, but he’ll have plenty more [good days] to come.”
Grosjean also opened up on the friendship he has forged with Russell, revealing this rather sad fact.
“I’ve had a good relationship with George,” said the Haas driver.
“When the announcement was made that I wasn’t going to be with the team next season, he was the first and only one to send me a WhatsApp message. That really shows that he’s a great guy.”