Mercedes handed 'healthy dose of realism' over F1 pace at Australian GP

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has stated Mercedes was issued a “healthy dose of realism” at the Australian Grand Prix weekend.

The Brackley-baed squad has struggled for consistent form across the last three seasons under the current technical regulations.

It entered the season-opening race from Melbourne with a revised driver line-up, with Kimi Antonelli making his debut for the squad after replacing Lewis Hamilton.

It walked away from the race with a podium finish in hand as George Russell crossed the line in third place.

While Wolff noted the car has taken a step forward compared to last year, the Austrian accepted it was evidently off the front-running pace set by McLaren.

“We leave Australia with many positives but also a healthy dose of realism as to where we stand in the pecking order,” Wolff said.

“The W16 provided a stable platform for the drivers, was less prone to swings in performance relative to the conditions than its predecessor, and at moments, showed strong enough pace to challenge at the front. 

“It's clear we have taken a good step forward over the winter. Our focus is now on unlocking more potential and adding performance. We are excited for that challenge.”

Wolff hails Russell for 'maturity and intelligence' in podium hunt

Russell's podium result came amid adverse weather conditions as rainfall was a consistent theme during the grand prix.

With the Briton taking third place and team-mate Antonelli securing fourth, it has placed Mercedes level on points with McLaren.

Wolff hailed Mercedes' effort during the race and praised Russell for his display en route to the podium.
 
“The race itself was well-executed,” he said. “We made the right decisions at the right time to claim our first podium of the season. 

“George drove a flawless race, pushing when he needed to, managing his pace to capitalise on the podium and taking advantage of the opportunities when they presented themselves. 

“A top performance and just underlies his speed, maturity and intelligence.”