P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes Formula 1 boss Toto Wolff has admitted the team’s latest setback in Australia has meant its chances of catching
Despite facing challenges in the initial practice sessions, the German car manufacturer remained hopeful that the adjustments made overnight would yield favorable outcomes in FP3. Lewis Hamilton finished fourth on the timing charts, just 0.092 seconds behind the leading pace, while his teammate George Russell secured the fifth spot. Hamilton expressed frustration with the handling of his car, leading to his elimination in Q2, with Russell qualifying seventh, eight-tenths slower than Max Verstappen’s pole time. Team principal Wolff criticized Mercedes’ current situation as inadequate, citing ongoing struggles with the inconsistent performance of their updated package. Hamilton and Russell both denied claims that the 2024 Mercedes car is a replica of its problematic predecessor, emphasizing improvements in drivability. Wolff maintained that achieving balance alone would not resolve their issues, emphasizing the complexity of aerodynamics, mechanics, and tire interaction. Despite acknowledging the challenge of catching up to Red Bull in the near future, Wolff urged perseverance and continuous effort in improving Mercedes’ performance, believing there is untapped potential in their car.
