P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes has explained that the decision to retire George Russell in the Formula 1 British Grand Prix was “preventative” to avoid more damage to his car’s power unit. Russell headed a Mercedes 1-2 from pole position in the opening laps, but he slipped behind his team-mate Lewis Hamilton and both McLarens when the rain arrived. […]
Russell led the race in a Mercedes 1-2 after starting from pole position, but he fell behind his teammate Lewis Hamilton and both McLarens when the rain began. During his Intermediate tire stint, Russell was closing in on Max Verstappen’s Red Bull for a podium position when he was instructed to pit due to a water leak issue. Mercedes’ Trackside Engineering Director revealed that the team decided to retire Russell’s car early to prevent engine damage and potential grid penalties. Despite the early retirement, it is believed that Russell could have secured at least a fourth-place finish and possibly even a podium if he had remained in the race. Ultimately, Hamilton made a strategic move to switch to slick tires late in the race, allowing him to overtake Lando Norris and clinch his ninth win at Silverstone.
