Mercedes managed to turn things around this Friday at Spa-Francorchamps. After a difficult FP1, the team managed to adjust their cars for FP2, with Kimi Antonelli ending the day in the lead and strengthening his bid for victory at the Belgian Grand Prix in Formula 1.
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This recovery by the German team was significant, especially after both drivers faced balance and low grip issues at the start of the sessions. George Russell also showed improvement, despite finishing only in eighth place.
Antonelli revealed that several changes were made to the car between sessions, which transformed its performance: “After a difficult FP1, we made several changes to the car that improved things. This gives us a positive direction to follow for the rest of the weekend,” he said.
The championship leader highlighted, however, that there is still work ahead: “We still have a lot to do, both in terms of setup and my driving. Although we finished the day in front, we know how competitive the grid is, both in qualifying and race pace,” he said.
The Italian also stated that he has left behind the disappointment of Silverstone and remains focused on maximizing points and fighting for victory: “Our goal is always to score the maximum points and fight for the win. Silverstone is already behind us, and I feel in a good position. Spa presents a different challenge, but we can be confident that we will be in the fight for the top positions,” he added.
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On the other side of the garage, Russell explained that Mercedes overestimated the track grip level in FP1, which compromised the initial car setup: “We had difficulties with the car balance. We managed to learn some things, but it was not the ideal way to start the weekend,” he commented.
According to the Briton, the changes implemented before FP2 improved the car’s behavior, especially in race pace: “There is still lap time to find, particularly in fast laps, and we will work on that overnight. Our pace in long stints was more competitive, which encourages us for Saturday and Sunday,” he concluded.
Andrew Shovlin, Mercedes’ track engineering director, confirmed that the lack of grip caught the team by surprise: “The changes between sessions worked. Kimi managed to make the most of his lap with soft tires and George had only one attempt, so eighth place does not represent his potential. The scenario is very balanced, but our race pace seems consistent, which is the most important thing at Spa,” he added.
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