Russell confirms long-standing W17 issue has finally been resolved

The Briton repeatedly complained during the weekends leading up to the summer break that he did not have the same level of electrical power available as the others, an issue Mercedes worked on and ultimately resolved at the final race before the break.

Speaking ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix weekend, Russell confirmed that Mercedes found a solution to the software issue in Hungary. However, the Briton explained that other problems prevented the team from showing its full potential, with the car proving difficult to manage from the opening practice session and several chassis issues affecting the weekend.

Looking back at Mercedes' recent form, Russell considered Hungary the first particularly difficult weekend in a run of around six Grands Prix. Even so, he believed a podium challenge was still possible on Sunday, before a separate problem at the start of the race further hurt his chances.

Russell is now focused on making a fresh start in the second half of the season, although he stressed that there is no guarantee Mercedes' performance will improve. The Briton is working hard both on and off the track to rediscover the rhythm he enjoyed for a long period and at the beginning of the season.

On track during FP1, the Briton set the third-fastest time, once again finishing behind his teammate, who topped the session. However, the gap was just one tenth on a track that was still evolving significantly.