P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Being stuck around the back end of the top 10 in practice hints at Mercedes’ suspension U-turn not fixing its problems. But what did the drivers have to say about the car’s performance on track? Hint, it’s not all as it seems…
Mercedes made the decision to revert to an old suspension layout for the Hungarian Grand Prix in response to recent struggles with the W16’s performance and stability issues in high-speed corners experienced by both drivers.
The team believed that the rear suspension upgrade from Imola was contributing to their drop in form, so they decided to switch back to the previous setup for the Hungaroring race weekend.
Despite not yet threatening the benchmark McLaren team in terms of pace, early signs from Friday’s running at the Hungarian Grand Prix were positive for Mercedes.
Both George Russell and Kimi Antonelli showed improved confidence and performance with the reverted suspension, with Russell finishing seventh and Antonelli tenth in the practice sessions.
The team split their setups for the two drivers for second practice, with Antonelli’s car deemed to be the more promising route, potentially putting them close to Ferrari’s pace.
Both drivers noted the improved feel and confidence in the car compared to previous weekends, with Russell acknowledging the team’s progress while also being realistic about the gap to the front.
Although pleased with the improvements, Mercedes is aware of the challenge posed by other teams like Aston Martin and McLaren, and the drivers are focused on continuing to fine-tune the car to close the gap further.
