P1racenews AI automatic summary:
It has been an underwhelming start to the new Formula 1 campaign for Mercedes as it sits fourth in the constructors’ standings after two grands prix.
Johnny Herbert, a former F1 driver, expressed concern over Mercedes’ slow start in Formula 1 this season, scoring only 26 points in the opening races and currently lying fourth in the constructors’ standings. Mercedes had hoped for better performance after introducing a revised W15 car with a new chassis but has struggled with pace, with George Russell and Lewis Hamilton finishing lower than expected. Herbert pointed out Mercedes’ continuous struggles over the past two years and the inability to address key issues leading to disappointing results. The team’s performance raises doubts about their competitiveness, especially with Hamilton leaving for Ferrari in 2025, further exacerbating their challenges. Herbert believes Mercedes might not see improvement until the introduction of new power unit regulations in 2026.