The Hungarian Grand Prix delivered a promising end to the first half of the 2025 season for the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team. George Russell secured his seventh podium of the year with a strong P3 finish, while Kimi Antonelli put in a determined drive to P10, collecting a crucial point after starting 15th.
The race marked a turning point for the team, thanks to a revised rear suspension specification that improved car balance and consistency across the weekend.
Russell Snatches P3 in Late-Race Drama
Russell started from P4 and wasted no time making moves—launching around the outside of Lando Norris at Turn 1 on the opening lap. From there, he committed to a Medium–Hard–Hard two-stop strategy, remaining in contention throughout the race.
Although Norris made a bold one-stop call to take the win, George executed a crucial overtake on Charles Leclerc in the final laps to clinch the final podium spot.
“It looked like we were heading for P4, but we kept the pressure on. The overtake on Leclerc was tight—he moved under braking, which earned him a penalty. Fortunately, no harm was done, and we brought home P3,” said Russell.
Kimi Fights Tooth and Nail for Final Point
After a tough qualifying session saw him line up in P15, Kimi Antonelli delivered a gritty drive. He ran a Medium–Hard one-stop strategy and completed nearly 50 laps on the same set of Hard tyres.
Under heavy pressure from Isack Hadjar and Lewis Hamilton, Antonelli showcased mature defensive driving to hold his ground and secure P10.
“That last stint felt like forever! The grip was fading, but I managed to hang on. It’s great to leave Budapest with a point and even better to feel confident in the car again,” said the young Italian.
Team Reaction
Toto Wolff, Team Principal & CEO:
“We’ve taken a big step forward. Returning to our previous rear suspension setup gave both drivers a more stable, balanced car. George’s podium was well-earned, and Kimi’s defensive drive on aging tyres was impressive. This weekend gives us direction for the rest of the season—even without major aero upgrades, we’ll keep refining.”
Andrew Shovlin, Trackside Engineering Director:
“A solid, confidence-building weekend. George showed strong pace, especially in the closing stages. Kimi made the most of his strategy and held off faster cars in a very disciplined final stint. We leave Hungary encouraged—and focused on fighting for P2 in the Constructors’.”
Race Recap – Mercedes Drivers
| Driver | Start | Finish | Fastest Lap | Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| George Russell | P4 | P3 | 1:19.409 | Medium → Hard (L19) → Hard (L43) |
| Kimi Antonelli | P15 | P10 | 1:20.745 | Medium → Hard (L21) |
Weather: Dry & warm | Track temp: 32°C | Air temp: 22°C
Looking Ahead
With 10 races to go, Mercedes enters the summer break with renewed momentum. The W16 is improving in both pace and consistency, and the team will return at Zandvoort looking to build on its upward trajectory and continue the push for second in the Constructors’ Championship.
F3 Round-Up: Strømsted Fights, Camara Clinches
Mercedes Junior Driver Noah Strømsted finished P12 in the FIA F3 Feature Race. Despite strong pace in practice, a challenging qualifying session limited his chances in the race.
“We showed good speed, but couldn’t capitalize due to a few mistakes and tricky conditions,” said Strømsted. “Now we reset and aim to end the season strong in Monza.”
Stay tuned as the 2025 season roars back to life at the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort. Until then, it’s time to recharge, reset—and come back fighting.