AlphaTauri driver Pierre Gasly has admitted that Mercedes will struggle ahead of the 2022 F1 season opener in Bahrain. The 8-time Constructors’ Champions have been the dominant force in the past decade. However, this year they could have their work cut out.

Gasly admitted that it was easier to race the W13 in testing in Bahrain. The Frenchman said, “We know we have a lot of work to do on our part in terms of performance and car balance. But I could see Lewis struggling as well and I think they have work to do to fight at the top.”

“I  think Mercedes probably doesn’t look as good as it did in the past. These laps were really interesting and fun. I was surprised that I was able to fight Hamilton for a few laps,” added Gasly.

“It’s much easier to follow than last year and that makes me happy for next season. Still, it’s a test. The tests are done to discover how to get the most out of the car,” he concluded.

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The two faced each other during the pre-season test at Bahrain, with a three-lap fight between them.

Meanwhile, Hamilton and Russell also experimented with the car’s new minimized sidepod design during the first day of testing in Bahrain. However, we still haven’t seen them give a big boost to the W-13’s performance.

After not the most impressive testing session, the Mercedes duo will try to put in an impressive performance as the new regulations come into force this week at the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Wil Mercedes Stay On Top?

It is believed that the team from Brackley could struggle in the first few races of the season. Moreover, this time, they may also face additional competition from Ferrari and McLaren.

Team Principal Toto Wolff will be wary of the fact that the reigning champions will face their toughest competition in recent years. Russell, who joins from Williams this season, will be expected to get the ground running from the start.

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The 2022 F1 season promises to be one of the most thrilling in a long time, so expect an intense battle with the best teams fighting it out.