P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes Formula 1 boss Toto Wolff admits the team’s double retirement from the Australian Grand Prix has provided a “brutal”
Mercedes started the F1 season poorly, with a non-score in Melbourne marking their worst opening since 2012. Lewis Hamilton faced engine failure while trying to climb up from 11th place, and George Russell crashed from sixth on the final lap. This leaves Mercedes in fourth place in the Constructors’ Championship with only 26 points, far behind Ferrari’s 44. Team principal Wolff admitted the situation is tough to take and feels uncertain, yet remains determined to turn things around. The team struggles with inconsistency in performance, as seen in the significant pace differences during the race. Despite the challenges, Wolff is confident in Mercedes’ revamped 2024 car’s potential to improve and cites Ferrari and McLaren’s resurgence as inspiration for a recovery. He emphasizes the importance of belief and perseverance during this difficult period.
