History repeats itself at Mercedes: 'Initially not so fast'

Mercedes has had a difficult start to the season. The German team has to accept that Ferrari and Red Bull Racing can get more out of their cars and therefore have to settle for a role as third team. Nevertheless, Mark Hughes thinks that Mercedes will make some quick steps, he writes for The Race.

Toto Wolff's team decided at the end of last calendar year to say goodbye to Valtteri Bottas and look for a replacement. In doing so, Mercedes had its eye on George Russell who performed excellently with Williams in 2021. The British driver also appeared eager to make the move, so both parties quickly came to an agreement.

Whereas prior to the season it was expected that Hamilton would stay ahead of his teammate, it is Russell who is currently in second place in the world championship. Hughes nevertheless sees that Hamilton is still a bit better, but expects Russell to make great strides this season.

"Overall, Russell’s assimilation into the team has been terrific," judges Hughes, who sees a similarity with the past. "Hamilton at the moment probably retains the edge in raw pace, but that’s only to be expected. He was, after all, initially not as fast as Nico Rosberg when he joined in 2013, but developed through the season to become faster."