Russell makes admission over 'inconsistent' Mercedes concern

George Russell has conceded Mercedes' ongoing consistency struggles with its car is the worst the team has ever experienced.

Mercedes entered the new era of technical regulations in 2022 on the back foot as it struggled with porpoising at high speed.

It has largely vanished the bouincing concerns but has been unable to establish itself as a consistent front-runner despite having a breakthrough in pace in the mid-part of the ongoing season.

The Brackley-based squad won three out of the four races before the summer break - but has scored just one podium in the seven races since.

Russell highlighted Mercedes' focus has come a long way from being restricted by the bouncing concerns it went through over two years ago.

“I think in 2022, in the sort of porpoising era, without doubt that was far more unpleasant,” Russell said.

“But because of the nature of those cars, it was far harder to get close to the limit because you were literally jumping around every single corner, and you knew that it was going to bite you.”

However, while the driver is now able to explore the limit, Russell suggested the car has become difficult to predict through the corners.

“The problem we've got with this car at the moment is you think it's not going to bite you, and you can achieve a really great lap,” he said.

“Then, suddenly nothing changes, or you feel nothing changes, and the following lap you lose all of that performance.

“Without a doubt this is probably the most inconsistent our performance has been as a team in probably forever.”