P1racenews AI automatic summary:
An updated floor on the Mercedes W15 was intended to turn the team’s Formula 1 fortunes around, but a double
In Friday’s qualifying session, Russell finished 11th fastest in SQ2 with Hamilton 12th after brushing with the wall on his final lap. Cut to the exasperated expression of Team Principal Toto Wolff in the garage for the world to see on the global feed as Mercedes struggles seem set to follow the team for a little while longer. Following the double exit, Russell, who is continuing with the team for the foreseeable was in a much more positive mindset in comparison to Hamilton, who must be continually longing to jump into the red (and blue) Ferrari as soon as possible. Moving forward into Saturday, Russell is confident he can progress in the Sprint and pick up points. Again, Hamilton is at odds with his younger counterpart and thinks getting anything out of the shortened race format will be “tough.” “In practice, the soft tyre was feeling really good on our car,” said Russell after Sprint Qualifying. “The pace was good, I think it was P4, and just on the medium just couldn’t find a sweet spot, and as you say, I found myself on the wrong side of it.” Hamilton meanwhile believed Mercedes was right where it should be on merit and as he played a more despondent tune.
