P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes has explained how concerns over graining and the available tyres are what prompted the team to split strategies twice in Formula 1’s Canadian Grand Prix. The German squad’s renewed pace saw George Russell in contention to win from pole position during a thrilling mixed conditions race at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. Once the track […]
The German squad’s strategic tire choices propelled George Russell into contention for victory from pole position during a thrilling mixed conditions race at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. Mercedes opted to put Russell on the Hard compound tire, while Lewis Hamilton received the Medium compound tire as the track dried out. Mercedes Technical Director James Allison explained that the decision was made due to the uncertainty caused by the limited dry running in practice and the threat of graining on the tires. The team’s choice paid off, as Russell’s Hard tires proved more durable and allowed him to overtake competitors who suffered from graining on their Medium tires. A late Safety Car disrupted Mercedes’ plan, but both drivers were able to switch to fresh slick tires for the final stages of the race. Russell’s switch to Mediums and Hamilton’s move to Hards proved crucial, with Russell ultimately passing Hamilton to secure the final podium place. Allison highlighted that Hamilton’s remaining tire allocations put him at a disadvantage compared to Russell in the final stint, but strategic tire changes helped Mercedes maximize their chances on the changing track conditions.
