Russell Labels Mercedes’ Spa Performance Worst of 2025

George Russell of the Mercedes team labeled the team’s performance at the Belgian Grand Prix as the worst of the 2025 season. Based on an in-depth analysis by SPORTRIK of his post-race interview, Russell highlighted a significant performance decline and the team’s evaluation plans. Consequently, this article examines Russell’s critique, the contributing factors, and Mercedes’ next steps, with facts sourced from the official interview reported by RacingNews365.

George Russell finished fifth, trailing race winner Oscar Piastri by over 30 seconds. Meanwhile, teammate Kimi Antonelli faced greater challenges, finishing 16th after a tough qualifying session. According to Russell, the wet conditions at Spa should have suited the Mercedes car. However, the results fell short of expectations. “The finishing result was the maximum, but the performance was very underwhelming,” he stated in the interview. As a result, he described the race as the team’s worst of the season.

Furthermore, Russell emphasized the need for a thorough review. “We need to understand what’s going on and why we’ve taken such a step backwards,” he said. For this reason, Mercedes plans to hold a comprehensive meeting to analyze the causes of the recent downward trend in performance.

Russell pointed to the front wing regulation change enforced from the Barcelona Grand Prix as a primary factor in the team’s struggles. “We went in a different direction after the front wing change,” he explained. However, this approach proved detrimental. For example, Mercedes attempted to adjust the car setup to address the regulation, but the changes were ineffective. “Since that point, we’ve taken a big step backwards,” Russell added. Therefore, he suggested reverting to earlier season setups, though the front wing change cannot be undone.

Moreover, Russell described the performance drop as “strange” given its severity. Consequently, the team will evaluate all aspects of the car setup to identify quick solutions before the next race, aiming to restore competitiveness in Formula 1.

George Russell firmly labeled the Belgian Grand Prix as Mercedes’ lowest point of the 2025 season, prompting an urgent team evaluation. Thus, the front wing regulation change and misguided development path are key areas for improvement. For this reason, Mercedes aims to regain its edge in upcoming races. For in-depth analysis of Formula 1 dynamics, visit SPORTRIK.