Wolff says Russell is struggling with Mercedes W17 operating window
Toto Wolff said George Russell has found Mercedes' W17 difficult to extract performance from, after a tough United States Grand Prix. Russell finished eighth in Austin and was 54 seconds behind team-mate Kimi Antonelli at the flag, as Wolff also defended him from criticism.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff said George Russell has struggled to get the most out of the W17 this season because of what he described as a difficult operating window. The issue came into focus at the United States Grand Prix, where Russell finished eighth.
Russell said he had no clear explanation for what he called his poor pace in Austin. His race stood in sharp contrast to team-mate Kimi Antonelli's performance, with Russell crossing the line 54 seconds behind him.
The result has prompted discussion about Russell's longer-term position at Mercedes amid Antonelli's success. Wolff, however, defended Russell against strong criticism.
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