Day one of the pre-season tests in Bahrain concluded today in preparation for the new F1 season. Several teams have chosen to divide the work program between their drivers, while other teams have opted to use a single driver.
Among these is Mercedes, who took to the track with George Russell aboard the new Mercedes W15 for both sessions.
The former Williams driver was very satisfied with the balance of the car, specifying how he collected various data which will then be analyzed in the evening. Russell completed 121 laps, with only Max Verstappen completing more individually:
“It was fantastic to drive the W15 for the first time today. It felt like we had a good base to start from.
“We have completed many laps and have a lot of data to analyze tonight. Overall, the W15 is more enjoyable to drive than last year’s car, the W14.”
The Brit “only” set the 12th-fastest time with a 1:34.109, over two and a half seconds behind the reigning world champion. Despite this, according to the team, it was still a positive day.
George Russell wanted to underline the team’s objective was to collect as much data as possible. Therefore, the priority was to complete several long runs and also test new aerodynamic and set-up solutions.
This was the priority, as opposed to seeking absolute performance:
“We concentrated, and we will focus tomorrow and Friday on maximizing learning mileage rather than finding a sweet spot with the car. We know that it’s not a question of sensations – but of speed.
“However, today was about learning and not chasing performance. In this test, we are focused on ourselves.
“Only next week we will see where we will be able to compete with others. It’s been a good first day, and I can’t wait to get back in the car on Friday.”
