Russell stressed that getting the tyres to work effectively in the face of changing track temperatures was the biggest challenge faced by all drivers, and he conceded that his team “got it wrong.”
Mercedes had a difficult Friday, with Lewis Hamilton finishing FP2 in seventh, and Russell in 10th. Both drivers believed that there was scope for improvement on Saturday, but despite making some adjustments, they couldn’t find the optimal setup.
Track Temperatures Pose a Challenge
The ever-changing track temperatures have proven to be a significant obstacle for all drivers, including Russell. When asked about the struggles faced during the race, he emphasized the difficulty of getting the tyres to perform at their best under these conditions. The team’s failure to address this crucial factor resulted in subpar performances during Friday’s FP2 session.
Disappointing Friday Results
Both Lewis Hamilton and Russell were left disappointed after their lackluster performance on Friday. Hamilton finished FP2 in seventh place, while Russell settled for 10th. The underwhelming results showcased the team’s struggle to adapt to the changing track conditions adequately.
Room for Improvement on Saturday
Despite the setbacks on Friday, both drivers remained optimistic about their chances for improvement on Saturday. They acknowledged the need to make adjustments to find the optimal setup and enhance their overall performance. With further tweaks and strategies in place, Mercedes hoped to regain their momentum and deliver a more competitive showing in the upcoming sessions.
Overall, the challenges posed by the track temperatures remain the primary concern for Russell and the Mercedes team. Addressing this issue and refining their approach will be crucial in ensuring a more consistent and successful performance moving forward.