Mercedes understands its lack of performance from Brazil that should stand it in better stead at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, according to team principal Toto Wolff.
Lewis Hamilton finished eighth and George Russell retired in a difficult race for Mercedes at Interlagos, with poor pace carrying over from Saturday’s Sprint into Sunday’s grand prix. Wolff described the performance as “unacceptable” but after work back at the factory ahead of the final two rounds he’s confident lessons have been learned.
[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1388]
“Brazil was probably our most difficult weekend of the season,” Wolff said. “After promising performances in the US and Mexico, we didn’t perform at our best in Brazil. We have been hard at work to identify the wrong turn we took with the set-up; we have done that. We understand our mistakes and can explain our performance loss to the field. That’s important as we look to secure P2 in the constructors’ championship.
“In parallel, we have been preparing for the challenge of racing at a venue that is a complete unknown. We have prepared the best we can, using the limited information we have, and there are some unique characteristics we can anticipate.
“The schedule is offset compared to other races. We’ll be running at night, where ambient and track temperatures will likely be in the single digits. Plus, the track layout itself is unusual with many slow corners but long straights. It’s going to be a big challenge for us all and we’re looking forward to taking it on.”
Wolff says the overall spectacle of the upcoming race in Las Vegas is going to have a significant impact on F1 from a commercial aspect as well as a sporting one.
“It will also be an immense effort off-track. We have an impressive guest hosting program including our own three-storey Vegas Club next to Turn 4. Media interest will be through the roof and seeing the cars race down the Las Vegas Strip will be one of the most exciting moments of the season. The eyes of the sporting world will be on F1, and we look forward to putting on a spectacular show. It is going to be something truly special to witness.”