George Russell gives verdict on 'cool fight' between Lando Norris and Max Verstappen after Austrian GP chaos

Verstappen was able to finish fifth, but it was Russell who reigned supreme with a stunning display.

Speaking in the cooldown room, Russell discussed the race with Oscar Piastri - who finished second.

Watching the footage back, he said: "Cool fight."

And Piastri then responded by saying: "Yeah because you won the race because of it."

Russell was proud after winning his first race of the season, with the Mercedes star paying tribute to the staff behind the scenes.

"Incredible. It was a tough fight out there at the beginning of the race just to hold onto P3," he told Sky Sports.

"I saw Max and Lando were going pretty hard and I knew Lando would want that win.

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"The team have done an amazing job to put us in this fight.

"You've got to be there to pick up the pieces and that's where we were.

"They [Verstappen and Norris] were going for it. I couldn't believe how close we were to Lando and Max.

"We were only about 12 seconds behind and I knew it [the collision] was a possibility. You are always dreaming.

"Just so proud to be back on the top step. We have made so many strides since the start of the season.

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"The last few races have been incredible. More to come."

As for Piastri, the McLaren star was disappointed to finish second - but proud of how he performed nonetheless.

"There’s a lot of what ifs and maybes obviously starting from yesterday, but I know it’s only my fourth podium in F1 but so close to a win, it hurts a little bit," he said.

"But really good points.

"I think second half of the race we were coming on pretty strong and I’m happy with another podium.

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"Just when you’re that close, you can’t help but hurt a little bit.

"It (Silverstone) was a place of good memories from last year and hopefully we can be at the front again.

"I haven’t seen what happened with Lando and Max but clearly it was pretty even up the front.

"I think we’re well and truly in the mix.

"Silverstone’s a track I always enjoy, team’s home race, so I’m excited for what’s to come."