Mercedes on Dutch GP team orders: We would’ve done the exact same thing the other way around
Mercedes has reviewed its Dutch Grand Prix team orders and is certain getting Kimi Antonelli to overtake George Russell late on ensured it secured a double Formula 1 podium – and would have made the exact same call the other way around. In the closing stages of the Zandvoort race, Esteban Ocon triggered a virtual safety car on lap 55, with Antonelli in second and Russell in fourth – split ...…
Mercedes has reviewed its Dutch Grand Prix team orders and is confident the decision to let Kimi Antonelli overtake George Russell late in the race ensured a double podium finish for the team. The decision was made clear during a strategy meeting and followed the drivers' request at the start of the race. The reasoning behind the move was to avoid losing any time with both drivers fighting each other.
Mercedes also debated using Antonelli to give Russell the tow and Overtake Mode, but decided against it due to the lack of significant lap time gain. The strategy paid off as Russell defended third place from both Ferraris, thanks to a virtual safety car earlier in the race.
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