Mercedes finally puts its major package on track as Russell looks to reignite the title fight

We reported on Tuesday that Mercedes would bring its major package to Sepang. The new development is that the weekend is now beginning for real and George Russell is directly linking those parts to his chances of closing on Kimi Antonelli.

After Baku, Russell is now 66 points behind his team-mate. Antonelli himself acknowledges that the Briton currently has momentum after his Azerbaijan victory. Russell hopes the new parts can strengthen Mercedes’ advantage over its rivals and put the team in regular contention for pole again.

Sepang should provide a useful verdict: Antonelli describes the asphalt as very abrasive and expects heavy tyre stress. The long high-speed corners and downforce demand will also test the package in much more complete conditions than Baku.