Mercedes struggles after costly crashes at Mexican Grand Prix

In Mexico City, during the practice sessions for the Mexican Grand Prix, Mercedes driver George Russell was involved in a significant crash that resulted in major damage to his vehicle. This incident marks Russell's second major crash in a week, compounding the financial burden on the team. Previous crashes, including one by teammate Andrea Kimi Antonelli and another by Russell in Austin, have significantly increased repair costs for Mercedes. As a result, the team faces mounting expenses that are directly tied to the Formula 1 budget cap regulations put in place by the FIA in 2021. Team principal Toto Wolff has acknowledged the risk of exceeding the budget cap due to these repeated incidents. He detailed the state of the damaged car, confirming that most parts, aside from the chassis, will require replacement or repair. The cumulative effect of these car repairs places pressure on Mercedes' financial resources, extending discussions about their competitive position in the championship. Historically, only Red Bull has faced penalties for breaching the budget cap, serving as a cautionary tale in the paddock. Wolff’s concerns reflect broader struggles among teams to remain compliant with budgetary constraints while still competing at high levels. The situation could jeopardize the team's ability to effectively manage resources and maintain competitiveness for the remainder of the season.