George Russell has revealed that there is a new top dog in Formula 1 that has taken over from Mercedes‘ early-season dominance.
Since early-season testing, Mercedes have continually been the team to beat. Their pace in the opening rounds of the season seemed to be significantly stronger than their closest rivals. However, despite a 1-2 for the team in the current Drivers’ standings, Russell believes there’s a new team to watch out for.
The team in question is the reigning World Champions, McLaren. The Woking-based squad endured a slow start to the season, facing a double DNS in China and a significant pace deficit to their rivals.
But following major upgrades in Hungary and the Netherlands, McLaren have secured the past two race victories, through reigning World Champion, Lando Norris.
When reflecting on the newfound pace in McLaren, Russell praised his fellow Countryman’s ability on high-degradation circuits. Something that both he and Mercedes have struggled with.
“I do believe that these high-degradation circuits really suit McLaren very well, and especially Lando,” Russell told media including Motorsport Week.
“He’s always been a bit of a specialist in those conditions. We also saw it last year.
Drivers will head to Monza for the iconic Italian Grand Prix. With this, Russell believes the track layout will suit the Silver Arrows better. But with engine upgrades expected from Ferrari, it’s not guaranteed the team will return to the strong form seen earlier this season.
“I think we will be slightly more competitive there (Monza),” Russell explained.
“However, I believe Ferrari have an engine upgrade incoming, and the truth is we just don’t know.”
Ultimately, Russell believes one thing for certain: McLaren is the team to beat for the remainder of the season.
“Monza may be slightly different, but I think they are the team to beat right now.”
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