Russell admits concern over Hamilton’s fast Ferrari starts for 2026
George Russell has admitted he is concerned by Mercedes’ sluggish race starts compared to former team-mate Lewis Hamilton ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season.
The sport has undergone a major regulation overhaul for the new campaign, introducing fresh power units and chassis designs that present a unique challenge off the grid.
While the Silver Arrows have shown impressive pace during testing in Bahrain, their lead driver believes they are currently inferior to their rivals when the lights go out.
Mercedes struggling to get off the line
The FIA has been trialling a new start procedure during the final pre-season event to give drivers time to adjust to the updated machinery.
"I think we’ve got a lot of potential beneath us," said Russell, who has been installed as the pre-season favourite for the drivers’ title.
"But to win a race, you’ve also got to get off the line quite well. And I think the two starts I’ve made this week were worse than my worst ever start in Formula 1."
Mercedes appear to be grappling with the technical nuances required to launch the 2026 cars efficiently.
Ferrari find an early advantage
In contrast, the Scuderia appear to have mastered the new launch mechanics, with the Italian team’s marquee signing demonstrating rapid acceleration during practice procedures at Sakhir.
Hamilton, now clad in Ferrari red, consistently outperformed his former colleague during the practice starts held at the end of Thursday’s sessions.
"Lewis, down in P11, got into P1," Russell observed regarding the seven-time world champion’s getaway.
"So, at this stage, I don’t think it matters how quick you are. I think that’s going to trip you up, it’s going to be that tallest hurdle."
"And that’s what we’re trying to get our heads around right now, and we’re stumbling on some at the moment."
McLaren predict early season variance
Oscar Piastri, whose McLaren is powered by the same Mercedes unit as Russell’s challenger, offered a slightly different perspective on the issue.
The Australian suggested that the opening rounds of the championship could see significant unpredictability as teams adapt to the technical demands.
"I think it’s just very random at the moment, and I think we’re all kind of learning what makes a good start, what makes a bad start," Piastri said.
"There are some pretty big pitfalls you can find if you get yourself in trouble."