Traditionally, the event has been seen as a one-stopper, but this year Pirelli opted to go a step softer than previously and bring its C3, C4 and C5 compounds in an attempt to create more interesting strategy choices.
On Friday, drivers reported graining, with Nico Hulkenberg noting that the C5 was “no race compound”.
Russell therefore believes that a one-stop strategy will no longer be the obvious choice.
“I think this year, with the softer tyres, it's going to be difficult in the race,” said the Mercedes driver.
“I think it was an easy one-stop in previous years, seemingly so far that's not going to be the way.
“It was definitely tricky out there - for all the cars a lot of graining up and down the pits.
“Usually this is a qualifying race here in Melbourne, but now Pirelli have been pretty punchy, I think things are slightly different.
“Last week [in Jeddah] probably too conservative, and needed to go a step softer. That's what we've done this week.”
Source: Autosport