Toto Wolff praises George Russell's flawless performance

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has praised his drivers ahead of the upcoming Chinese Grand Prix. The team started the 2025 Formula 1 season strong at the Australian Grand Prix, with George Russell finishing third and rookie Kimi Antonelli placing fourth in his first race. As Mercedes heads to Shanghai, they are tied with McLaren at the top of the Constructors’ Championship. McLaren leads on points due to Lando Norris’ win in Melbourne. Wolff noted the positive start for Mercedes but also emphasized the need for a realistic view of their current standing. Wolff expressed satisfaction with the performance of the W16 car, saying it provided a stable platform for the drivers. He highlighted their progress over the winter and the goal of unlocking more potential and performance. He commended Russell for his excellent race management and maturity that led to his podium finish. Regarding Antonelli, Wolff praised his ability to navigate difficult conditions during his debut. Looking back at last year’s performance in Shanghai, Mercedes had mixed results. Hamilton qualified well but faced challenges during the race. Wolff expressed excitement about returning to China, emphasizing the country’s importance to Formula 1 as a major automotive market. He is hopeful for another great event this year.