Mercedes has confirmed a split-specification approach for the upcoming Singapore Grand Prix, with George Russell and Kimi Antonelli operating different car configurations. The decision follows the team's recent performance struggles, specifically regarding upgrades introduced at the previous race in Malaysia that failed to meet the team's internal performance expectations.

By running both the older-specification car and the newer, upgraded package simultaneously, Mercedes aims to gather comparative data to identify why the recent technical updates did not provide the anticipated speed gains. This strategy allows engineers to isolate variables between the two car builds in a real-world racing environment. The team is currently working to diagnose whether the issues stem from the design of the new parts, correlation errors between their simulation tools and the track, or other external factors affecting the car's balance and downforce.