Mercedes’ successful turnaround and upward trajectory can be largely attributed to engineer James Allison, reveals driver George Russell. The British driver explains how Allison’s experience, talent, and clear leadership have been vital to the team’s success. Additionally, Mercedes seems to be making extra progress due to the “normal” performance dip at Red Bull.
Mercedes started the 2024 season as a midfield team, but has since made a significant comeback. The German team even won three out of the four races before the summer break, and is once again competing for podium positions. Driver George Russell attributes Mercedes’ turnaround to one very important team player.
“I think James Allison’s involvement in the project has been a huge advantage for us,” Russell tells Motorsport Week. “We’ve always had a lot of talent within the team, but it’s vital that we have clear leadership and a clear direction to maximize the talent of the designers and aerodynamics engineers. His experience is also enormous, so that’s been a big factor.”
Despite Allison’s talents, the turnaround was also unexpected for Mercedes itself. “The revival in performance from us and McLaren was certainly a pleasant surprise, and perhaps also a bit exaggerated by Red Bull’s loss,” explains Russell. “I think we’ve moved forward and they’ve also come back, so it’s a big swing.”
Red Bull’s Performance
Red Bull currently ranks second in the constructors’ championship, between McLaren and Ferrari. According to Russell, it’s good for Formula 1 itself that the Austrian racing team is no longer dominating. “In a normal season, a driver and a team should not win every race and this is the norm. We’re talking about this disaster for Red Bull, but this is what happens in a normal season,” concludes Russell about the competitor’s performance dip.
