Russell underlines ‘radical’ Mercedes breakthrough plan

George Russell has explained how his lack of Mercedes pace in Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was down to a "radical" plan in set-up. 

The Briton finished free practice 2 in 13th place, one second behind session-topper Lando Norris and some four-tenths behind team-mate Lewis Hamilton in fifth. 

Russell was complaining of rear-instability through the day at Yas Marina, with the three-time grand prix winner detailing how the "radical" set-ups tried were part of the plan for aid the 2025 W16 machine.

"We struggled a bit, but we were trying a lot of things in preparation for next year as this is our last opportunity and we wanted to go, let's say, a little bit radical with some of the set-up options," he explained.

"It was just to see if there's anything more we can learn, so we are hoping [Saturday] will be a bit more of a normal day.

"Lewis did some great laps out there, but still as a team, we're a long way off McLaren and Ferrari. 

"McLaren look in a league of their own at the moment, but Lewis did a great job but we are still four-tenths behind the McLaren, and that is bigger than we'd usually expect.

"I expect Ferrari to probably get back in the mix, Max as well, but I hope we can make some improvements."