Wolff hoped for more: "We are trying many things but lack pace".

Mercedes will be hoping to maintain the good form of the past few race weekends and get back on the podium at the French Grand Prix. Toto Wolff, however, knows better than anyone that the team faces a major challenge.

In the first free practice session George Russell and Nyck de Vries, who replaced Lewis Hamilton, set fourth and ninth fastest times respectively. A few hours later, Russell and Hamilton were good for fourth and fifth place, which gave more hope to Mercedes.

Mercedes sees competition perform better

Nevertheless, Wolff understands that there is work to be done for his team. Ferrari and Red Bull look set to be strong again in France. If all cars finish the race without damage, they will be the favourites for the podium. Wolff knows that too, telling Sky Sports.

"Not where we want to be. Trying lots of parts but lacking pace. We have a few aero modifications on the floor and side edges. Little things that should make it better," says Wolff, who sees the competition doing better. "We're losing in all corners against Ferrari, on the straights against Red Bull. Not an area, apart from turn 11 when we're competitive."