Mercedes point to F1 title fight 'change' after summer break

Mercedes is expecting the F1 title fight to “change” when the campaign recommences after the summer shutdown break.

The F1 campaign has reached its halfway mark, with the Hungarian Grand Prix last weekend signalling the last race before the traditional summer rest.

Mercedes currently holds a lead in both championships, having enjoyed a successful start to the campaign as it goes in hunt of its first double title triumph since 2020.

However, in recent rounds, it has been caught by rival squads and is under notably more pressure compared to the opening events.

The Dutch Grand Prix in just over three weeks' time will see the season get back underway, and with it, Mercedes expects the intensity to ramp up.

“History tells us that the championship always changes after the summer shutdown,” Mercedes deputy technical director Simone Resta told the Nu Silver Arrows Radio Show.

“The pressure increases on the teams that are leading, but equally it increases on the teams trying to catch up. 

“The environment becomes more intense, and every result carries more weight.”

Mercedes currently sit 72 points ahead of Ferrari in the constructors' standings, while the drivers' championship sees Kimi Antonelli hold a 50-point advantage over Lewis Hamilton.

Despite the healthy margins, Resta hinted Mercedes can't rest on its laurels in the second half as the stakes are raised when the pressure increases.

“That's when you really see the strength and resilience of an organisation,” Resta added.

“It's where teams demonstrate whether they can handle the pressure and continue performing when the stakes become higher.

“I'm very interested to see that phase of the season unfold because it's often where championships are ultimately won or lost.”