George Russell, the Mercedes driver, secured first place in the qualifying for the 2024 Canadian Grand Prix, which is the ninth race of the 24-race season. This achievement marked the team’s first podium of the campaign, signaling a return to form for the once-dominant team.
In an interview with the F1 podcast Beyond the Grid, Mercedes representative Allison expressed confidence in the team’s improved performance and its ability to compete in the upcoming races. He highlighted the challenges they faced earlier in the year, where the car’s performance was compromised in slow or fast corners. However, recent modifications to the car have achieved a more balanced performance in both types of corners, leading to a breakthrough moment for the team.
Allison described this breakthrough as an accomplishment of something that was previously unknown, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field. He acknowledged that the team should have recognized the solution earlier, but now they have a clear path ahead.
The pursuit of downforce and improvements in mechanical areas had diverted Mercedes’ attention from addressing the fundamental aerodynamic issue. However, the introduction of a new front wing has been a crucial element in correcting this problem.
Looking to the future, Allison expressed optimism about the team’s competitiveness for the rest of the season. While he did not expect them to secure pole position in the next race, he believed they could have a strong performance and keep up with the pace of their competitors.
A Mercedes, led by seven-time F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton, secured its last victory in 2022. The 2023 season was the first time since 2011 that they did not win a race. Currently, Mercedes holds fourth place in the 2024 F1 constructors’ championship, trailing reigning champions Red Bull by 177 points.
Red Bull has been dominant this season, winning six out of the nine races, while Ferrari and McLaren have each secured two and one victory, respectively. The upcoming Spanish Grand Prix at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya will be a crucial test for Mercedes, determining whether they can end their winless streak. The team hopes to regain momentum and return to victory in Barcelona. (Reported by Alan Baldwin)
