Mercedes software issue linked to Russell woes

Reports from Autosport, Motorsport.com and RaceFans say Mercedes traced George Russell’s recent problems to software linked to his slow Hungarian GP start.

Mercedes has reportedly traced George Russell’s recent Formula 1 problems to a software issue rather than a change in driving style. Autosport reported that the team identified the source within its power unit software, and also said Russell believed data pointed to a calibration problem behind the difficulties that affected him from Silverstone to Spa.

Reporting on the Hungarian Grand Prix connected the issue to Russell’s poor launch. Autosport and Motorsport.com reported that the revs rose out of control on the grid, leading to a slow start, while Autosport added that a water leak after hitting a kerb on Saturday destroyed the engine and forced Mercedes into an engine change before the race. RaceFans separately reported that Mercedes told Russell the bad start was linked to the throttle pedal.

Russell is third in the 2026 drivers’ championship on 160 points and has seven wins from 161 Formula 1 starts. Mercedes is in its 19th Formula 1 season as a constructor and has 138 wins and eight titles.