George Russell Secures Canadian GP Pole Ahead Verbal Clash with Max Verstappen

George Russell secured pole position for Mercedes at the Canadian Grand Prix, setting up a dramatic front row alongside Max Verstappen, who is just one penalty point away from a race ban following a collision with Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix. The incident in Spain, where Verstappen was penalized with a 10-second penalty and three penalty points, continues to create tension, with Russell accusing Verstappen of trying to 'scare' him, though not intentionally crash. Verstappen admitted his move was 'not right' but has not sought a direct discussion with Russell, and their recent airport encounter was light-hearted despite their on-track conflict. Verstappen expressed frustration over repeated references to the incident in media, calling it 'childish' and a waste of time, while insisting team responsibility is collective rather than blaming individuals. Russell emphasized that if Verstappen continues reckless driving and earns another penalty point, a race ban would be justified. Meanwhile, Lando Norris struggled in qualifying, finishing seventh, while Lewis Hamilton qualified fifth, just behind Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli.