Mercedes is encouraged by their positive start to the 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 three races.
For the first time in the current era of ground-effect regulations, Mercedes has achieved consecutive podium finishes at the start of a season. This is a milestone they haven`t reached since the beginning of 2021, with George Russell securing third place in both the Australian and Chinese Grands Prix.
Adding to their strong performance, rookie driver Kimi Antonelli has finished fourth and sixth in his first two Formula 1 races. As a result, Mercedes enters the Japanese Grand Prix weekend in second place in the Constructors` Championship, trailing leaders McLaren by 21 points.
Andrew Shovlin, Mercedes` trackside engineering director, commented in a team video that they have demonstrated a car that performs well across different types of circuits.
He also pointed out that McLaren appears to be the team to beat currently, with Max Verstappen also showing strong pace. Shovlin believes Ferrari is not far behind either, despite experiencing some misfortune in recent races.
Shovlin emphasized the close competition at the front and Mercedes` commitment to developing the car to close the gap, particularly to McLaren.
He further added that it`s exciting to begin a season with a well-performing and enjoyable car for the drivers. He highlighted the improved predictability of the car and expressed optimism 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 due to inconsistent car performance across different tracks and weather conditions.
In contrast, George Russell has consistently finished within the top five in every qualifying and race session this season so far.
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 first triple header of the season. This will be followed by consecutive races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia in the Middle East.
Shovlin analyzed the upcoming races, noting Suzuka as a fantastic, fast, and flowing track, favored by many drivers, although it will be a new experience for rookie Kimi Antonelli. He acknowledged it`s a challenging circuit for a young driver in only their third race but noted Antonelli`s excitement.
Moving to Bahrain, Shovlin mentioned their familiarity with the circuit from pre-season testing. He anticipates they will be competitive for podium finishes there. Lastly, Saudi Arabia, a smooth street circuit with relatively new tarmac, presents its own unique challenges. He concluded that after these five races, a clearer picture of the true competitive order should emerge.
Marcus Prine