George Russell is happy to show such strength in the first two tests of Friday’s Miami Grand Prix, even if the Mercedes driver is under no illusions yet. He points out that the weekend is still long.
Russell finished second in the first practice session behind Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc and was fastest in practice two. Mercedes stood out for the first time this season.
Russell, 24, said: “We knew the warm conditions in Miami would suit our car better. “In previous races we had problems keeping the tires warm, which is a big factor,” he said.
“The car has held up well so far, but it’s only day one, so we shouldn’t focus on that. I think we learned the most about the car on Friday.”
According to Russell, some circuits suit the Mercedes better than others. “Of course we weren’t strong in Imola, but we seem to be doing well in Miami. This is a unique trail. They’ve done a great job here.”
In Miami, Russell was faster than teammate and seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who set the eighth and fourth fastest time in the first two practice sessions.
George Russell at work at Miami Speedway.
George Russell at work at Miami Speedway.
Photographer: professional shoots
“It was a busy but encouraging day”
Mercedes chief engineer Andrew Shovlin is pleased with the achievement, even though his team is still troubled by dolphins (jumping on the track). However, the newly introduced parts seem to work.
“It was a busy but encouraging day,” Shovlin said. A few red flags interrupted our schedule, but we got most of the work done. Overall, we seem to have made some progress,” he said.
“There is still a lot to be done. We need to improve the stability of the car and keep the tire temperature under control. These are our main goals. But compared to last Friday, it’s a good start.”
The third free practice session will be held on Saturday evening at 7:00 PM (Dutch time), followed by qualifying at 10:00 PM. The Miami Grand Prix starts on Sunday at 9:30 p.m.
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Source: NU
Jason Jack is an experienced technology journalist and author at The Nation View. With a background in computer science and engineering, he has a deep understanding of the latest technology trends and developments. He writes about a wide range of technology topics, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, software development, and cybersecurity.
