Yesterday at 10:10
Toto Wolff has cautioned that Mercedes "cannot expect" to
permanently enjoy the "level of performance" it showed at the
Canadian Grand Prix. George Russell claimed an assured victory at
the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, which included pole position and
fastest lap, whilst team-mate Kimi Antonelli secured his maiden
podium finish in F1. However, their team principal has sought to
temper expectations, highlighting how rival F1 teams will be
significantly more competitive at the Red Bull Ring than they were
during the weekend in Montreal, which complemented the
characteristics of the W16. "Victory and a double podium in
Montreal were a reward for the hard work of everyone at Brackley
and Brixworth," reflected Wolff. "Though we have made solid
progress with our car in recent weeks, we know that we cannot
expect this level of performance each and every weekend. "The
Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, with its absence of high-speed corners
and a more closed tarmac that puts less stress on the tyres, suited
the W16. "The team executed well and took advantage of that, but we
know that our rivals will likely be much more competitive in
Austria this weekend." The target in Austria The 53-year-old laid
out his target for the Austrian Grand Prix, as well as underlining
what the weekend in the Styrian hills can help the team establish.
Although Russell won in Spielberg last season, he was gifted
victory by Lando Norris and Max Verstappen clashing in the closing
stages. This time, Wolff is wanting to fight for a podium result.
"Building on the momentum from Canada is therefore our focus," the
Austrian added. "The track in Spielberg will be a good test of our
recent updates and provide another reference point for our
progress. "There is still a long way to go this season. We will
look to maximise our points scoring and hopefully be able to
challenge for the podium once again."
