Mercedes finished with a double podium in Spain after a disappointing start to the 2023 season. In the first six races of the season before the Spanish GP, Mercedes had only managed to claim a single podium. Therefore, it was unexpected that the Brackley-based outfit would finish in the top 3. However, George Russell revealed that he had already gotten a feeling that he would be able to get a podium after just two laps.
Russell had a tricky qualifying session and was knocked out in Q2 itself. Starting the race from P12, behind Sergio Perez, a top-three finish seemed unlikely before the start of the race. However, Russell had a brilliant start to the race and was up to P7 just after the first two corners.
One of the significant factors that helped Russell achieve the podium was the new upgrades that arrived at Monaco. The upgrades did not show their effect in Monaco because of its narrow street nature. In Barcelona, however, Mercedes reached their full potential and attained their first double podium of the 2023 season.
George Russell loved the feel of his Mercedes in Spain
Speaking to the media after the race, George Russell revealed exactly when he started to think that the podium was a possibility. “Quite early on, to be honest,” he said. He then went on to explain how the team’s strategy worked perfectly.
“Even after that first stint, I believed it was possible when I saw other cars peeling into the pits. My tires were feeling good, the car was feeling good, so I think even after two laps I thought ‘You know what, we can do this today’,” said Russell. He explained, “The team did a great job with the strategy, and it was a satisfying race, making some good moves on the people around me.”
It is expected that with further upgrades, the car would perform even better. Therefore, there can be many more such results to come shortly.
Mercedes overtakes Aston Martin in the Constructor’s Standings
Heading into the Spanish Grand Prix, Mercedes were just one point behind Aston Martin in the Constructor’s championship. After the brilliant performance in Spain, they are currently in second place with 152 points, 18 points ahead of Aston Martin. Aston Martin did not have a good outing in Spain as they finished P6 and P7, much worse than they have shown they can achieve this year.
The only negative part about the Spanish GP weekend is that Hamilton, who finished P2, was 24 seconds behind the untouchable Max Verstappen. Therefore, it is understandable that a lot of work has to go in before Mercedes even dreams of catching up with Red Bull, let alone pass them. But the team is hopeful that they can do so.
