In the 2025 Formula 1 drivers’ standings, there is a strong case for Mercedes’ George Russell to be a title contender due to his consistent performance, securing four podiums. However, he has not led a single race lap this year, despite his competitiveness in qualifying sessions. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff acknowledged that while their car excels in pace, the team struggles to maintain it over race distances, especially with tyre management.
Mercedes has been closing the gap in pace to the leading car but still lacks the ability to maintain competitiveness over long runs, as shown in races without safety car interventions. Wolff praised McLaren’s expertise in tyre management, pointing out that their approach is legitimate and calling for improvement rather than accusations of rule-bending.
Wolff emphasized the importance of focusing on tyre management as a key differentiator among the top teams and confirmed that Mercedes is dedicated to addressing this challenge for the upcoming races and next year’s car, despite technical changes in 2026. He expressed confidence in the team’s efforts to improve and compete at a higher level in future races.
