© Steve Etherington for Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd.
After the first day of 2024 pre-season testing, George Russell says Mercedes is “focused on maximising mileage for learning rather than chasing an optimum sweet spot with the car”.
George Russell completed the first day of pre-season testing for Mercedes, and although he finished the day in P12, he says performance is not the team’s focus in this test.
“It was great to drive the W15 for the first time in anger today,” the Briton said.
“From hitting the ground, it felt like we had a good foundation to start from. We completed lots of laps and have plenty of data to go through tonight.
“We ended the day in a reasonably good spot, and we can build from here over the next two days.
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“We will be focused on maximising mileage for learning rather than chasing an optimum sweet spot with the car. Overall, the W15 does feel nicer to drive than last year’s car.
“We know that it’s not about the feeling, but the speed. Nevertheless, today was about learning and not about chasing performance.
“We’re focused on ourselves at this test, and it will only be next week where we see where we stack up against the others.
“It was a positive first day and I’m looking forward to being back in the car on Friday,” Russell concluded.
