Mercedes drivers George Russell and Lewis Hamilton described their experience at the Japanese Grand Prix as “challenging” following a race marked by strategic tire decisions and on-track battles.

Opting for hard tires after the race restart, Russell and Hamilton found themselves in a unique position, with Russell defending the team’s decision despite the difficulties they faced.

Russell commented on the strategy, stating, “I think it was the right decision, starting on the hards, because it gave us the flexibility to do the one-stop or the two-stop.” He acknowledged the challenging nature of the first stint, expressing a desire to be in contention with the leading pack.

Hamilton, who allowed Russell to pass him during the race, attributed his decision to suspected damage sustained earlier in the race. Reflecting on the opening stint, he remarked, “I think I picked up a bit of damage at the beginning… I couldn’t turn the car into any of the corners – that’s why I let George go.”

Regarding the team’s strategy, Hamilton remained uncertain about the outcome had they chosen differently, emphasizing the tough conditions they encountered on the hard tires.

While Russell secured seventh place after a late battle with Oscar Piastri, he was investigated for a maneuver earlier in the race. However, the stewards opted not to take any action against him.

Assessing Mercedes’ standing relative to their rivals, Russell highlighted the fierce competition behind Red Bull, emphasizing the importance of qualifying in determining race outcomes.

“I think it’s going to come down to qualifying,” Russell commented, noting the narrow margins between competitors on the grid. “Whoever manages to qualify at the front of that pack will finish at the front of that pack.”

As Mercedes navigates the challenges of the season, both Russell and Hamilton remain focused on optimizing performance and seizing opportunities for success in the upcoming races.