Mercedes set clear target after 'lost ground' concern

Mercedes is setting its hopes on a strong result at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix and recover from the “lost ground” it endured last time out at Monza.

The Brackley-based squad has endured a challenging campaign and has scored just one podium at the last six rounds.

While George Russell has been a consistent point-scorer during that period, team-mate Kimi Antoneli has struggled with just three points in the same time.

Mercedes is targeting a second-place finish in the constructors' championship and understands it needs to make a step forward in a bid to achieve its goal.

“With the European part of the year now complete, we begin the final third of the season this weekend,” said team boss Toto Wolff.

“It will be an intense run to the flag in Abu Dhabi, with three teams in the fight for second in the constructors' championship. 

“We lost some ground to our competitors in Monza and know we need to perform better in the closing eight races than we did in Italy if we are to come out on top.”

Mercedes has twice won around the Baku circuit, with its last victory coming in 2019.

While Mercedes is not the favourite entering the upcoming weekend, Wolff is hopeful it can be in the mix. 

“The flyaway races start with two street circuits,” he said. “First up is Azerbaijan before we then head to Singapore in two weeks' time. 

“The track in Baku is a challenging mix of high-speed straights, 90-degree corners and the tight, twisty castle section. It is a good test for both the car and the driver. 

“The grid is tight and once again small margins will make a big difference; if we deliver in the way we know we can, then we can be hopeful of a strong weekend fighting near the front of the field.”