The team principal of the Brackley-based team, energized by George Russell’s win in Canada and Antonelli’s podium, expects that “…our rivals will probably be much more competitive this weekend” on the Styrian track. However, the Austrian believes in the updates brought to the W16 and is targeting the third step of the podium.
In the past five years, Mercedes has not won in Austria, leaving the door open to Red Bull and Ferrari and allowing Max Verstappen to claim every pole position, establishing himself as the true master at home. However, the Brackley squad arrives in Spielberg after a return to victory in the Canadian GP with George Russell and a third place from Kimi Antonelli.
“The win and double podium in Montreal,” admitted team principal Toto Wolff, “were a reward for the hard work by everyone in Brackley and Brixworth. Although we’ve made significant progress with our car in recent weeks, we know we can’t expect this level of performance every single weekend.”
“The Gilles Villeneuve circuit, with its lack of fast corners and tighter asphalt that puts less stress on the tyres, suited the W16. The team did a great job and made the most of it, but we know our rivals will likely be much more competitive in Austria this weekend.”
Therefore, the Austrian isn’t setting his sights on victory, but will try to defend second place in the Constructors’ Championship, which was reclaimed in Montreal from Ferrari…
“Our goal is to carry the positive momentum from Canada. The Spielberg circuit will be a good test for our recent updates and will provide another benchmark for our progress. There’s still a long way to go this season. We’ll try to maximize our points and hopefully fight for the podium once again.”
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