P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has conceded George Russell’s FP2 crash at the Mexico City Grand Prix has placed the team in “serious trouble” with F1’s cost cap.
George Russell crashed during the second practice session at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, his car becoming unsettled over the kerb in the esses, leading to a high-speed spin towards the barrier at Turn 9. The Mercedes mechanics had to work extensively on repairing the damage. This incident followed Russell’s crash during the United States qualifying, which also caused damage and cost them the team’s latest update package. Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Russell’s future teammate in 2025, had a significant crash in his maiden FP1 appearance at Monza last month. The consecutive crashes have raised concerns for staying within the budget cap, with key components needing to be replaced, including the engine and gearbox. Despite the 35G impact and a visit to the FIA medical centre, Russell was cleared to continue racing, while the team has spare parts to address the damaged car.
