© LAT Images for Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd
After taking P3 in Bahrain Grand Prix Qualifying, George Russell says Mercedes has “obviously made a big step forward in single-lap qualifying pace”.
One-lap pace seemed to be a weak point for Mercedes in 2024 pre-season testing.
However, after he took P3 in Bahrain Grand Prix Qualifying, George Russell says Mercedes has obviously improved in that regard.
“We’ve obviously made a big step forward in single-lap qualifying pace,” the Briton said.
“Since the test, the whole team has been working incredibly hard to fine-tune the set-up and make improvements.
“Lewis and I have been back on the simulator, fine-tuning the set-up, making some improvements. We’ve had some really great drivers back at base doing the work in the simulator.
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“Everybody at the factory has done an amazing job to give Lewis and I a car that we feel much happier with, a base that we can build upon.
George adds he hopes the team’s focus on improving qualifying pace, won’t compromise their performance in the race.
“When we look at our qualifying performances over the last two years in Bahrain and our race pace, starting P3 is a great place.
“We hope we haven’t compromised the race pace at all. I think it’ll be a close fight between everybody – other than Max [Verstappen]!
“But ultimately, Max is still out there in front, so we’ve still got some catching up to do. Red Bull is still so strong at the moment. Max is doing a really great job. He’s got the new tyres as well.”
As for the race, George thinks Ferrari, Aston Martin, McLaren and Mercedes will fight for the podium positions behind Verstappen.
“If there’s an opportunity to take the lead, we’ll go for it, but ultimately I think the race for all of us is for second.
“It’s clear how tight it is between a number of teams, including ourselves, Ferrari, the McLarens and Aston Martin. I think we’re likely to be in a close fight for the podium positions behind Verstappen.
“It’s exciting knowing that if you put the whole lap together and find a tenth or two, that will add up to several positions on the grid.
“Let’s hope for some craziness,” Russell concluded.
