Mercedes is optimistic about their prospects for a turnaround following a lackluster start to the season, with the upcoming Saudi Arabian Grand Prix presenting a prime opportunity.
In the season’s opening round at the Bahrain International Circuit last weekend, the team’s drivers secured fifth and seventh positions.
This outcome left them somewhat disheartened, especially considering their strong performance during practice sessions earlier in the week, where they showcased the capabilities of their new W15s.
Nevertheless, team principal Toto Wolff remains assured that they can address the challenges faced last week and improve their performance moving forward.
He stated; “Our race in Bahrain was best described as underwhelming. We were hopeful of a stronger showing after our performance in practice and qualifying.
“Both drivers were pleased with the balance earlier in the weekend, and the more stable platform provided by the W15. Unfortunately, on Saturday evening, our cooling performance didn’t match our predictions.”
Lewis Hamilton and George Russell received instructions to employ the “lift-and-coast” technique in response to overheating issues, exacerbating the car’s performance woes.
He added; “That forced us into management mode early on, which had the knock-on impact of reducing tyre temperatures below optimum. That cost us the opportunity to show something closer to our true potential. It was a frustrating way to start the season but one we will learn from.”
Wolff is optimistic about the team have “an opportunity to take a step forward immediately” at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit this weekend. He stated, “We will be aiming for a more consistent weekend and to understand our true performance relative to the rest of the grid.”
In Bahrain, Russell secured third place in qualifying, trailing pole-winner Max Verstappen by three tenths of a second. However, he ultimately slipped to fifth position at the end of the race, finishing 46 seconds behind the leader.
Meanwhile, Hamilton, who started the race from ninth on the grid, his lowest season-opener position with Mercedes, crossed the finish line three seconds behind Russell.
