Mercedes Explains Delayed Team Order Call with George Russell in Mexico GP

Mercedes communications chief Bradley Lord has shed light on the 'tricky situation' that led to delayed team orders involving George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli during the recent Mexico Grand Prix. Russell was vocal in his criticism of the team's handling, particularly the timing of the swap, which he felt cost him a potential podium.

Why it matters:

• Team orders are always a sensitive topic in F1, balancing individual driver ambitions with overall team objectives. The delay in this instance highlights the fine line teams walk and the potential frustrations that can arise.
• Mercedes' transparency in debriefing the situation offers insight into the complex decision-making process during a high-pressure race and the lessons learned.

The Details:

• Russell's Request: On lap 35, George Russell, closing in on Antonelli and feeling he had significantly more pace, requested a position swap, emphasizing the opportunity to fight for a podium against Ferrari and Haas.
• Initial Response: Mercedes initially did not agree, informing Russell he was 'free to race' but also asked him to manage 'rear surface temperatures.'
• Frustration Builds: Russell's frustration mounted as he continued to push for the swap, arguing that Antonelli was holding him back from a stronger team result.
• Delayed Enforcement: Team orders were eventually enforced on lap 41, six laps after Russell's initial request. Russell argued this was too late, preventing him from making the desired overtake, and positions were ultimately reversed later in the race.
• Mercedes' Perspective: Bradley Lord explained that Antonelli was managing his tires for a one-stop strategy, doing exactly as asked. Meanwhile, Russell was under pressure from Oscar Piastri, using more of his tires in dirty air but also believing he had the pace to advance.
• Overtaking Difficulty: Lord noted the inherent difficulty of overtaking in Mexico due to low downforce and amplified dirty air effects, making the situation even more complex.

What's next:

Mercedes acknowledges that the delay, rather than the decision itself, was the key issue. The team's takeaway is the need for greater decisiveness in such situations, whether it's to hold positions or swap them immediately.

• This incident will likely influence future in-race strategy calls, pushing the team to make quicker decisions to avoid similar scenarios and minimize driver frustration.
• The focus will be on refining communication and decision-making protocols to ensure clarity and optimal race outcomes.