Russell declares Mercedes ‘deserved to finish’ fifth at Monza

George Russell expressed frustration with Mercedes' performance at the Italian Grand Prix, where the team's lack of straight-line speed left him unable to challenge Ferrari. Russell finished a solitary fifth, acknowledging the car's limitations despite his efforts to overtake Charles Leclerc. This result saw Mercedes lose further ground to Ferrari in the Constructors' Championship. Teammate Andrea Kimi Antonelli, despite qualifying an impressive sixth, had a challenging race. A poor start and a track limits penalty hampered his progress, ultimately leaving him to lament a "difficult race" at Monza. Mercedes appears to be struggling to match its rivals' pace.