In Bahrain, Mercedes was the protagonist of a weekend of two halves. After good indications to start the weekend, the team failed to optimise its package when it mattered. Mercedes fell short of expectations in the race, with technical issues pushing them down into a battle with McLaren.
In Saudi Arabia, it will be interesting to observe if Mercedes can compete further up the field.
Toto Wolff: “Disappointing race in Bahrain, we didn’t show real potential”
“I could describe our race in Bahrain as disappointing,” said Toto Wolff.
On the eve of the second race weekend of the season, the Mercedes team principal explained how expectations were high after qualifying:
“Both drivers were pleased with the balance achieved at the start of the weekend and the more stable platform provided by the W15.”
At the end of Sakhir’s qualifying at Mercedes, there was satisfaction with George Russell’s third place.
Meanwhle on Hamilton’s side of the garage, despite qualifying P9, there was confidence that a race-oriented set-up would produce results.
In round 1, the team’s predictions did not materialise on track.
This is also due to the cooling problems, which forced the Mercedes drivers to drive in management mode.
“This had the knock-on effect of reducing tyre temperatures below the optimal level,” explained Toto Wolff.
“This cost us the opportunity to show something closer to our true potential. It was a frustrating way to start the season, but one we will learn from.”
The prospects for the weekend in Saudi Arabia and the support for Doriane Pin in the F1 Academy
In Jeddah, Mercedes is therefore looking for redemption after a GP in which the potential of the W15 was not fully expressed. Both drivers felt more comfortable in the car compared to previous years.
“In Jeddah, we immediately have the opportunity to take a step forward. It is a road track with many high-speed sections.
“We are aiming for a more consistent weekend and understanding our true performance compared to the rest of the grid,” says Toto Wolff.
Much like Frédéric Vasseur, he outlined why Jeddah’s characteristics make it critical to gauge performance.
Finally, the Mercedes team principal enthusiastically commented on the start of the F1 Academy championship, in which the three-pointed star will be represented by the talented Doriane Pin.
“For the first time, we will be involved as a team. We are thrilled to see our young driver Doriane Pin in action and look forward to supporting the championship throughout the year.”
The twenty-year-old Frenchwoman who joined the Mercedes Academy stood out for her excellent performances in championships where very experienced drivers compete.
These include WEC, the European Le Mans Series, the IMSA, the GT World Challenge and the Ferrari Challenge.
Author:Loris Preziosa
Translation: Jaden Diaz-Ndisang
