P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Why Mercedes view Qatar crash as useful learning experience
Mercedes had hoped to convert their second and third grid positions into a strong points finish, but their plans were derailed when George Russell and Lewis Hamilton collided on the first lap. Hamilton attempted to overtake Russell and Max Verstappen, but ended up making contact with his teammate, forcing him out of the race. Although Russell managed to recover to finish fourth, he believed that Mercedes had missed an opportunity to challenge Verstappen for the win. Mercedes Communication Director, Bradley Lord, stated that the incident was not intentional and would be discussed internally. Lord also reminded everyone that the team’s priority is to avoid contact between the two cars. He mentioned the incident in the 2016 Spanish Grand Prix involving Hamilton and Nico Rosberg, and emphasized that the team has learned from such experiences and will work through the current situation together.
Source: Motorsport Week
