George Russell has criticised rival teams for attempting to “slow Mercedes down” after the Silver Arrows’ front-wing design came under scrutiny ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix.
Mercedes have had a dominant start to the 2026 Formula 1 season, winning both races so far, but their early advantage has quickly drawn attention from competitors.
Championship leader Russell believes that scrutiny has already led to unnecessary intervention.
Front wing controversy emerges
The focus centres on Mercedes’ front wing, which appeared to behave unusually during the Chinese Grand Prix.
Footage suggested a “two-stage” transition between straight-line and cornering modes, prompting questions from rival teams.
Under F1’s 2026 regulations, active aerodynamics allow both the front and rear wings to adjust depending on the phase of the lap.
However, strict rules govern how quickly these transitions must occur, and whether only fixed positions are permitted.
Ferrari were among the teams to raise concerns with the FIA, asking for clarification over whether Mercedes’ design complied with the rules.
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Russell: Not ‘right’ to target Mercedes
Russell has now spoken out, insisting it is unfair for rivals to push for changes so early in the season.
“We have worked so hard to get ourselves in this position, and the best team should come out on top.
“We’ve obviously had four years of struggle. There have been two other teams over four years who have dominated and won,” said the Mercedes driver to Sky Sports F1.
“Just because we’re sort of back on top, I don’t think it’s quite right, everybody’s trying to slow us down, especially when you’re two races in.
“We shouldn’t forget these things. We do have an advantage right now, but I think we’ve just really hit the ground running and done a great job. We hope it continues.”
Coming just two races into the new regulation cycle, the situation has added tension to what is already a closely watched technical era for the sport.
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All eyes on the Silver Arrows
Mercedes have taken pole in both races of the season so far, and have enjoyed one-two finishes as well in the Grands Prix.
Whether their front wing has anything to do with their clear advantage, time will only tell, and all eyes will definitely be on them moving forward.
“The proof will be when the Mercedes gets back on track. Now it has been raised, all the other teams will have people watching videos, slowing it down, the FIA will keep an eye on it,” said Sky Sports F1‘s Karun Chandhok.
“If there is some sort of discrepancy, they will have got away with before but won’t anymore. But, I believe they are averse of it.”
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SportJustSport writers 
Aidan Leo