Russell clear towards Mercedes: 'We can't afford that'

George Russell sees that there is a lot of potential at Mercedes, but notes that the German racing stable still has clear steps to make to make it difficult for Red Bull Racing and Ferrari. The Brit explains in conversation with F1i.com the improvements that are needed.

From 2014 onwards, Mercedes was invariably among the top teams in Formula 1, but since this season's new regulations, the team has had a much tougher time. Russell, who is in his first season with the German team, finds that Ferrari and Red Bull are too far ahead for now.

Improvements needed at Mercedes

However, Russell knows that his team is working hard at the factory to develop the car. "I think we just need to find a bit more downforce. When we look at Barcelona, we were the quickest in the high-speed turns," the driver analyzes Mercedes' situation.

However, he knows that more teams are trying to get closer to the two top teams. In fact, Mercedes is also suffering from other competitors this season. According to Russell, his team cannot just accept that. "We need to find a bit more pace in qualifying. We can't afford to keep having an Alpine or McLaren jump us."