P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Unwanted Mercedes streak continues amid “not acceptable” F1 weakness
Mercedes recognizes the urgent need to address its main weakness in the 2026 Formula 1 season, which is struggling with race starts while its rivals are catching up.
Despite Mercedes securing four wins in as many races, the ongoing start woes, particularly for driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli, have been a significant issue, with him losing positions off the line consistently.
Antonelli, although maintaining success with a record-breaking third consecutive victory in Miami, admitted that Mercedes’ start problems are unacceptable and can greatly impact race outcomes, especially in close competitions.
The team acknowledges the need for improvement in providing drivers with better tools and support for consistent starts, as they have failed to lead a lap in races where they started from pole position this season.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff highlighted the collective responsibility to rectify the start issues, emphasizing the necessity to delve deeper into finding solutions while facing fierce competition in the Formula 1 field.
