Mercedes have admitted that a pit-stop error played a significant role in denying George Russell a potential race victory in his battle with Lewis Hamilton.
Russell looked set to return to winning ways after producing a stunning lap to secure pole position on Saturday. However, the British driver was unable to end a winless run stretching back to the Australian Grand Prix in March, as Hamilton and Ferrari used superior race pace and strategy to come out on top.
The 28-year-old has endured a frustrating spell in recent races. A retirement at the Canadian Grand Prix and a costly penalty mishap in the Monaco Grand Prix allowed team-mate Kimi Antonelli to build a healthy advantage in the 2026 championship standings.
Mercedes Reveal Costly Pit-Stop Error
Russell’s fortunes appeared to take another hit during Sunday’s race when a virtual safety car, triggered by the retirement of Fernando Alonso, handed Hamilton a crucial strategic advantage with a well-timed pit stop.
But Mercedes have now revealed that Russell’s challenge was further compromised by a mistake during his final pit stop.
Speaking during the team’s post-race debrief, deputy team principal Bradley Lord reflected on what was otherwise a landmark weekend for Russell.
“It was a milestone weekend for George with the team as well. His 100th Grand Prix with Mercedes. On Saturday, he claimed the 10th pole position of his career and followed that up with his 26th podium finish for the team on Sunday.”
Lord then disclosed the pit-stop issue that affected Russell’s performance in the closing stages.
“More importantly, it was great to see George back at his best after a difficult run of results. However, during our final pit stop, we incorrectly adjusted the front wing due to a problem with the adjuster gun.
“That left him with a very oversteery car balance, which certainly compromised his pace in the final stages of the race.”
Russell-Antonelli Battle Also Hurt Mercedes
Lord also admitted that intense on-track battles between Russell and Antonelli ultimately cost the team valuable race time.
“We lost time with the two drivers fighting each other during the second stint and again in the third stint,” he said.
“Then, with Kimi, we suffered a reliability failure that ended any chance of him reaching the finish.”
Despite missing out on victory, Russell’s pole position and podium finish marked a welcome return to form and offered encouragement after a difficult run of races.