George Russell praises Mercedes team for strides made with new upgrades

Mercedes driver George Russell spoke of his pride for his team and the work they have done to deliver several improvements to the W13, on the back of his podium finish at the Spanish Grand Prix.

The car has been a real challenge so far this season for the reigning Constructors’ champions but it appears as though they have started to crack this particularly tough nut.

Indeed, the car looked quick all through the race weekend just north of Barcelona and their race pace was solid, too, with Russell taking third place and Lewis Hamilton producing a fine recovery drive after a clash with Kevin Magnussen to take P5.

Of course, they’re not winning and that is what they want to do but it appears they’re making steps in the right direction and Russell was rightly pleased with the result at the Circuit de Catalunya.

“Today was super tough!” Russell said to the Mercedes website.

“I’m just so proud to be standing here on the podium and bring it home for the team. The guys have worked so hard, so this result is for everyone back in Brackley and Brixworth who’ve worked tirelessly, thank you! I gave it everything I could to hold Max off, they were some enjoyable laps!“

The F1 circus now heads to Monte-Carlo for the Monaco Grand Prix and, of course, qualifying is going to be crucial towards getting a positive result.

Mercedes will feel they can get good points here now, too, with them boasting two of the quickest drivers over a single lap and now a car that is starting to help them both deliver at the sharp end.

Early days still in their progress, but it does seem as though Mercedes are heading in the right direction.