Wolff defends Mercedes' two-stop strategy for Russell in Madrid

Toto Wolff has backed Mercedes' decision to pit George Russell twice in the Spanish GP after the driver questioned the strategy. Russell finished fifth; teammate Kimi Antonelli won with a one-stop.

Why it matters:

The strategic split highlights Mercedes' evolving dynamics as Antonelli extends his title lead. With Russell 81 points behind, the team must balance a title contender and a driver fighting for his own results.

The details:

• Russell made two stops: first for a new set of mediums during the Virtual Safety Car period, then again for hards.
• Antonelli, like most of the grid, executed a one-stop strategy and won after Lando Norris lost out due to VSC timing.
• Russell questioned the call on the radio, saying he could have held off Norris. After the race, he acknowledged the hard tyre was superior and overtaking was nearly impossible.
• Wolff's explanation: The mediums weren't in great shape and they didn't think they would last. The pit opportunity was taken to change tyres rather than wait for a red flag.

What's next:

Russell has effectively ruled himself out of the title fight, but Wolff insists they will work on his mindset. "We need to find out what it is for him to unleash his potential," Wolff said, citing Russell's junior dominance.