McLaren’s advantage over the rest of the grid this Formula One season could be even greater than Red Bull’s record-breaking 2023 season, according to Mercedes’ George Russell. The reigning constructors’ champions entered the season as the favorites and won the season-opening Australian Grand Prix with an impressive drive from Lando Norris.

Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri qualified 1-2 on the grid, then went on to dominate the race until a trip into the gravel knocked the latter out of contention for a win. Verstappen brought his Red Bull home in second, albeit with the knowledge that he didn’t have the equipment to compete.