George Russell has acknowledged that the ongoing struggles of Mercedes in the 2024 Formula 1 season are difficult to accept, especially as the team faced challenges during the hot conditions at the Austrian Grand Prix. Russell is set to begin Sunday’s race at the Red Bull Ring starting from fifth position on the grid, reflecting the car’s limitations on this demanding circuit.
Mercedes Performance Hampered by Heat and Circuit Characteristics
The Austrian Grand Prix presented a tough challenge for the Mercedes W16, with soaring track temperatures and fast, sweeping corners that do not favor the team’s current car performance. This contrasts sharply with Russell’s previous success in Montreal, where he controlled the race from pole position at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, a track with cooler conditions and fewer high-speed turns.
Following qualifying, Russell made it clear that securing fifth place was the best possible result given the circumstances. He said,
“I think that was definitely the maximum we could have got.”
Russell highlighted the gap to other competitors, except Lando Norris, whose performance was especially impressive in qualifying.
“Lando, obviously, did a really amazing job all day today and it was bigger than we thought,”
he stated.
Russell further explained the challenges facing Mercedes at the Red Bull Ring, emphasizing multiple factors:
“I think it’s a combination of everything. The track is hot – 50 degrees – the tarmac is pretty abrasive, high-speed corners and it all goes against us.”
He compared this situation to Canada, where similar conditions also worked against the team’s strengths.
Recognizing their position, Russell admitted,
“We know where we need to improve. It’s no major surprise. It’s always a tough one to swallow every time you come to a weekend knowing you are not going to be on top form.”
Russell Receives Warning Over Pit Lane Incident
In addition to performance struggles, Russell received a warning after a near-collision in the pit lane during qualifying. While attempting to enter the fast lane, he almost came into conflict with his former Mercedes teammate Lewis Hamilton and other drivers, including Ferrari competitors.
Russell described the situation before attending the stewards’ meeting, explaining the difficulties with visibility:
“Then you have a massive blindspot. You can only move your head so much. The mirrors… It’s a massive blindspot.”
Despite this close call, Russell did not anticipate any formal penalties, adding,
“We’ve got to go to the stewards but don’t expect any issues. It’s just part of it.”
Implications for Mercedes and What Lies Ahead
The Austrian Grand Prix highlighted persistent problems for Mercedes amid the 2024 season, particularly in hotter climates with challenging circuit layouts. George Russell’s candid reflections underline the reality that the team continues to face a difficult path to regain competitiveness against strong contenders like Ferrari and Red Bull.
As the season progresses, Mercedes will need to focus on resolving weaknesses and adapting their car to diverse race conditions to avoid further setbacks. Russell’s measured response and acknowledgment of their shortcomings reveal a team fully aware of the work required to improve results and challenge for podiums consistently in the coming races.