The Mercedes F1 team is on a mission to replicate their recent success at the 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix, targeting another sensational performance at the upcoming Qatar Grand Prix. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff is hopeful for another 1-2 finish, just like their stunning result in Las Vegas.
Mercedes’ drivers were in superb form during the Nevada race weekend. From the very start, the Silver Arrows were dominant, with Lewis Hamilton and George Russell showing their prowess. Hamilton topped both FP1 and FP2 on Friday, while Russell seized pole position after an impressive performance in qualifying.
Russell’s pace continued on Sunday, as he led from the front, while Hamilton, who qualified poorly in P10, displayed his racing brilliance by fighting his way up to P2.
This performance marked one of the best weekends for the Brackley-based team since the 2020 F1 season. Now that Mercedes has rediscovered their rhythm, Wolff is eager to see a repeat of their Las Vegas triumph in Qatar.
“The races in Las Vegas and Qatar are vastly different,” Wolff explained. “The Lusail International Circuit is high-speed with fewer braking zones, and despite racing later in the calendar this time, the heat will still be a factor. It’s a stark contrast to Las Vegas, with its cool temperatures and slower corners. But we’re aiming for another strong performance this weekend.”
While Mercedes’ 1-2 finish in Las Vegas was a major boost, it did little to change their position in the Constructors’ Championship. The Silver Arrows remain in 4th place, trailing leaders McLaren, Ferrari, and Red Bull by a significant margin.
Toto Wolff heaped praise on both Lewis Hamilton and George Russell for their exceptional performances in Las Vegas. Russell’s control throughout the race was nothing short of remarkable, while Hamilton’s recovery from P10 to P2 was a testament to his racing skills.
“George was on another level—his driving was out of this world. His defense against Leclerc was something special,” Wolff said. “And Lewis, coming from P10 to finish just five seconds behind George, was an incredible performance. Chapeau!”
As it stands, Mercedes will likely finish 4th in the Constructors’ Championship this season, far behind Aston Martin. This comes as a disappointment after their P2 finish last season, making 2024 feel like a step back despite their Las Vegas success.