Helmut Marko sees how former rival Mercedes is once again dominating Formula 1. The German team emerged strongest from winter testing and remains undefeated after five Grands Prix in the new regulatory era. The Austrian enjoys the internal battle between Mercedes drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli and hopes for more duels like in Montreal – also because they offer opportunities for the rest of the field.
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In an interview with Austrian OE24, the former Red Bull top advisor looked back on the opening phase of the season. Russell won the first race in Australia, but since then his younger teammate has consistently taken the victory. According to Marko, this is partly due to the dominant W17. “They have the best engine and also set the tone in terms of battery performance,” he said.
“Moreover, for the first time since 2021, they have succeeded in developing a truly competitive chassis and they have a particularly strong driver duo,” he added. With the introduction of the ground effect regulations in 2022, eight years of Mercedes dominance came to an end. Red Bull and McLaren successively set the benchmark in Formula 1 – until now. Mercedes’ current resurgence also coincides with the breakthrough of Kimi Antonelli, who at 19 years old has already won four Grands Prix in a row.
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Ferrari strong in Monaco
“It’s really impressive to see Antonelli so fast at such a young age,” Marko admitted. “But Russell is the experienced force within the team and he will undoubtedly come up with an answer.” During the Canadian GP, the Brit started ahead of his teammate and managed to fend off the Italian’s attacks for over thirty laps. However, the beautiful battle came to an abrupt end when Russell’s drivetrain failed. “If Russell and Antonelli continue to fight each other, it offers opportunities for the rest,” said Marko. “Otherwise, Mercedes threatens to only further extend its lead.”
Nevertheless, he expects Mercedes to lose out to Ferrari during the upcoming Monaco GP. Several experts – including Lando Norris and McLaren team boss Andrea Stella – have already indicated that the Scuderia should thrive on the winding street circuit. According to Marko, home hero Charles Leclerc is therefore the big favorite. “Mercedes will have a hard time in the slow corners of Monaco,” the Austrian predicted. “Leclerc, who is driving in front of his home crowd, is my favorite. I think he will also put in a strong performance in qualifying. And in Monaco, the polesitter often has the best chances.”
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