RACE START: Watch the getaway in Montreal as Russell maintains the lead over Verstappen

George Russell executed a great getaway from his first pole position of the season in the Canadian Grand Prix, fending off Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri to maintain the lead around the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve.

It was a frenetic start to the race as the Mercedes driver controlled the launch well, establishing a small gap to Verstappen on the first lap as the lead McLaren was similarly unable to challenge for P1.

LIVE COVERAGE: Russell holds lead ahead of Verstappen in Canada

In a continuance of McLaren’s tough weekend, Piastri came under pressure from rookie driver Kimi Antonelli just behind, who was able to pass him and ensure that both Mercedes were in the top three.

Elsewhere, Alex Albon and Franco Colapinto battled towards the tail end of the top 10 – their scuffle resulted in the Williams cutting a corner to avoid contact, which then allowed Nico Hulkenberg to charge through and take two positions in a single move.

Click go on the video player above to watch the race start in Montreal.