Russell wins first race of new Formula 1 era

MERCEDES HAVE THE EDGE ON RIVALS IN SEASON OPENER

- By PHILIP DUNCAN

Mercedes team members applaud George Russell after his Australian Grand Prix victory

GEORGE Russell said he overcame a "hell of a fight" to land a win in Australia and lay down a marker in his world championship bid.

Pole-sitter Russell lost out to a fast-starting Charles Leclerc at the first corner in Melbourne before going on to trade the lead with his Ferrari rival five times during a frenetic start.

At the beginning of the ninth lap, Russell locked up under braking as he attempted to clear Leclerc, but their yo-yo battle ended when Isack Hadjar stopped with an engine failure and the Virtual Safety Car was deployed.

Russell pitted for new tyres but Ferrari erroneously kept Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton out on track.

Ferrari's blunder allowed Russell to race to the chequered flag unopposed.