With Verstappen’s Red Bull stranded in the gravel in front of 16,000 Lando Norris supporters at the world champion’s designated stand, the safety car was deployed.

The seven-time world champion edged out Kimi Antonelli in qualifying for the 17-lap dash.

The Dutchman’s future has been the subject of speculation throughout the season.

Russell’s former boss Claire Williams says the British driver has the ‘maturity’ needed to triumph.