P1racenews AI automatic summary:
George Russell enjoyed a superb start to the F1 season, but the Mercedes driver does not feel it was entirely representative.
George Russell believes that only two of his four podium finishes in the first six rounds of the F1 season were truly earned on merit, as he started the season strong but faced challenges as the Mercedes W16’s performance deteriorated.
Despite the setbacks, Russell has shown consistent form and is considered one of the standout performers of the season, currently sitting fourth in the drivers’ standings with 172 points.
The Mercedes driver acknowledges that luck also played a part in their early success, with favorable circumstances benefiting the team in the beginning of the year.
He reflects on the issues faced by Mercedes, including a rear suspension upgrade that destabilized the car and struggles in hotter races as the season progressed.
Russell credits his successes in China and Bahrain as truly deserved, while acknowledging that luck played a role in his other podium finishes early in the season.
