George Russell believes Mercedes needs to “revert back to what we had earlier in the season” after failing to match the leading teams in the Belgian Grand Prix, with fifth place “probably flattering the real pace of the car”.
The Briton drove a lonely race on Sunday at Spa-Francorchamps, finishing 35s behind race winner Oscar Piastri having made up only one place from his starting position at the expense of Alex Albon in the early running when it was wet.
Since winning the Canadian Grand Prix back in June, Russell and Mercedes have lacked performance in the last three Grands Prix, which the 27-year-old has put down to a change in direction regarding the car focus.
“We need to understand why we’ve lost so much pace in recent races. Of course it’s frustrating for all of us as a team, P5 was probably flattering the real pace of the car so I’m at least happy we got the maximum possible,” said Russell.
“We made a clear change of direction a couple of months ago and I think since that point we’ve taken a step backwards.
“Sometimes it takes a few races to understand what the real reasons are for that lack of pace but clearly it seems like we need to revert back to what we had earlier in the season.”
Team mate Kimi Antonelli endured a difficult weekend, failing to make it beyond the first stage of Qualifying for both the Sprint and Grand Prix.
Having started from the pit lane after set-up changes, which included a new front wing for more downforce, the young Italian made two pit stops and eventually finished 16th.
“Today I had more confidence in the car, definitely with the new wing I had more stability and that was helping,” said Antonelli.
“Also the car felt more connected so definitely took some confidence back and now is time to really try and work for Qualifying because when you start at the front is completely another story.
“Especially for Budapest where it’s even harder to overtake to really do a good Qualifying and start at the front.”