Mercedes is encouraged by their positive start to the new Formula 1 season, noting their car is now `much more predictable`. However, they believe the true competitive order at the front of the grid will only become apparent after the upcoming series of races.
For the first time under the current ground-effect regulations, Mercedes has achieved consecutive podium finishes at the beginning of a season – a feat last accomplished at the start of 2021. George Russell secured third place in both Australia and China.
With rookie teammate Kimi Antonelli achieving fourth and sixth-place finishes in his first two races, Mercedes enters the Japanese Grand Prix weekend holding second position in the Constructors` Championship. They are currently 21 points behind McLaren, the early leaders and championship favorites.
Andrew Shovlin, Mercedes` trackside engineering director, commented that the team has demonstrated a car that performs well across different types of circuits.
He also noted that McLaren appears to be the team to beat, with Max Verstappen also showing strong pace. Shovlin added that Ferrari seems closely competitive, despite experiencing some misfortune in recent races.
Shovlin emphasized the intense competition at the front and Mercedes` commitment to developing their car to close the gap, particularly to McLaren.
He further stated that it is exciting to begin a season with a well-performing and enjoyable car for the drivers. He highlighted the improved predictability of the car and the team`s anticipation for the rest of the season.
Despite securing four race wins last season with Russell and Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes finished fourth in the Constructors` Championship, their lowest position since 2012. This was largely attributed to the inconsistent performance of their car, which fluctuated significantly based on track characteristics and weather conditions.
In contrast, George Russell has consistently finished within the top five in every qualifying and race session this season.
Significance of the First Triple Header in F1 2025
Formula 1 is now heading to the Suzuka circuit in Japan, marking the start of the season`s first triple header. This will be followed by consecutive races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.
Shovlin assessed these upcoming events, describing Suzuka as a fantastic, flowing, and fast track, favored by many drivers, although it will be a new experience for rookie Kimi Antonelli.
Regarding Bahrain, Shovlin mentioned their familiarity with the circuit from pre-season testing and expressed hope for podium contention. He described Saudi Arabia as a smooth street circuit with relatively new tarmac, presenting its own unique challenges.
Shovlin concluded that after these five races, a clearer picture of the true competitive order in Formula 1 is likely to emerge.
