Mercedes grabbed the fastest time in the second free practice session of the Mexican Grand Prix on Friday with George Russell. That performance gives the German formation hope for the rest of the weekend, but Helmut Marko does not expect Mercedes to come close to victory.
The team of Russell and Lewis Hamilton is still waiting for victory this season. There may be opportunities for the formation in Mexico, if Mercedes manages to keep Ferrari and Red Bull Racing behind them. Marko thinks that precisely that is going to be a problem for Mercedes.
"The analysis has shown that together with Ferrari we are clearly in the lead," Marko stated in conversation with Servus TV. "Braking and temperatures are crucial here. But if the weather forecast is correct, Saturday will be much cooler, possibly wet. Then it will also be easier in terms of brake load."
Ferrari and Red Bull have challenge
The Austrians, however, have work to do first. While Max Verstappen finished fourth and sixth, Sergio Perez had to settle for third and fifth. Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc grabbed first and second places respectively in the first session.