Mercedes Targets Rebound in Baku Amidst Constructor Battle

Mercedes is setting its sights on a strong performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, aiming to recover from the "lost ground" experienced at the previous race in Monza. The team is engaged in an intense fight for second place in the Constructors' Championship as the final third of the season commences.

Why it matters:

Securing second in the Constructors' Championship is a critical objective for Mercedes, impacting their season's standing and future prospects. A positive result in Baku could provide the necessary momentum for the challenging closing races.

The big picture:

• Mercedes has faced a tough campaign, achieving only one podium finish in the last six rounds.
• George Russell has consistently delivered points, but teammate Kimi Antoneli has struggled, scoring just three points in the same period.
• Team Principal Toto Wolff emphasized the need for significant improvement in the remaining eight races to achieve their championship goal.

The details:

• Wolff highlighted a tight three-team battle for second place in the constructors' standings.
• He acknowledged Mercedes' underperformance in Monza, stating, "We lost some ground to our competitors in Monza and know we need to perform better... if we are to come out on top."
• Baku's street circuit is known for its demanding layout, combining high-speed straights, 90-degree corners, and the tight castle section.
• Mercedes has a history of success in Baku, with two victories, most recently in 2019.

What's next:

The Azerbaijan Grand Prix kicks off a series of flyaway races, immediately followed by Singapore. Wolff expressed optimism that if Mercedes can perform to its capabilities, they can be "hopeful of a strong weekend fighting near the front of the field," even if they are not the outright favorites. Small margins are expected to play a crucial role on the challenging Baku circuit.