Toto Wolff has been left feeling optimistic after the Australian Grand Prix, with Mercedes having achieved a strong double points finish. The team have faced a difficult start to the 2022 season, due to problems with their car including a persistent issue with porpoising. However, the Silver Arrows came away from Melbourne with a perhaps better than expected result. George Russell benefited from timing his pit-stop with a Safety Car, and as such was able to take P3, marking his first podium finish with Mercedes. Lewis Hamilton was only a little under three seconds behind in fourth, meaning that the Brackley-based squad are currently second in the Constructors' Championship standings.
Wolff pleased with "lessons learned" in Melbourne
As such, Wolff is pleased with the step forward that the team have taken during their visit to Albert Park. "We are leaving Melbourne in a better state than when we arrived - more lessons learned, more data to analyse and more points on the board," Wolff explained after the race. "Clearly we haven't got the pace yet to challenge Ferrari and Red Bull, but we know where we need to seek performance. One factor that leaves me very optimistic for the future is the mindset and strength of the team. "Everyone in the UK, in Stuttgart and in the travelling race team is pulling together every ounce of effort we have to tackle the performance gaps with determination and a deep hunger."
Russell and Hamilton's partnership praised by Wolff
Another reason that Wolff is feeling positive after the Australian Grand Prix is down to the performance of Russell and Hamilton, and he has also acknowledged the strength of their partnership. "Seeing Lewis and George perform at an exceptionally high level today, with a tool that is clearly not on the pace of the leaders, is another example of the spirit of this team," the team boss added. "We are optimistic yet realistic on the timeline for improvement and the advantage our competitors have, but P3 and P4 helps us leave Australia with a good feeling. "Both drivers deserved the podium today, Lewis was unlucky with the timing of the Safety Car but the partnership between the two and how they work with one another epitomises the overall spirit of the team."
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