Long-run shock in Australia: George Russell and Mercedes tear the competition apart
Motorsport.com • • sports
Key Points:
- Mercedes showed strong long-run pace during Friday's practice sessions at the Australian Grand Prix, with George Russell notably outperforming rivals by nearly half a second per lap on heavy fuel loads.
- Despite setting the fastest lap in the second session, McLaren struggled in long runs, trailing Mercedes by over a second per lap, while Red Bull also lagged behind Mercedes in race-pace simulations.
- Data suggests Mercedes may have conserved engine power during qualifying simulations, as their cars recorded lower top speeds compared to McLaren and Ferrari, indicating strategic engine mapping differences among teams.
- Midfield teams showed varied performance, with Audi impressing in long runs, particularly Nico Hulkenberg, while Haas and some other teams struggled with heavier fuel loads.
- Tyre
