Mercedes and their faulty upgrades have been a never-ending tale that has been following the Silver Arrows for the past two and a half years. Every time the technical team implements an ambitious upgrade package, the F1 vehicle suffers in some way. Whether it’s the balance issue, oversteer, or aerodynamics, the Brackley-based constructors have yet to find a permanent technical solution.
Earlier in Belgium, the new floor had to be scrapped after it turned the car into a violent kangaroo. Further, the team has tried almost every configuration, but nothing seems to work. However, the James Allison-led team refused to give up as they introduced a mega update for Austin. While the team was optimistic about a turnaround, things went downhill AGAIN. Both Lewis Hamilton and George Russell complained about the W15’s weird behavior, and the Mercedes fans believed the upgrade might be axed. To everyone’s surprise, Toto Wolff, the Mercedes chief, has announced the team will continue with a similar setup in teh remaining rounds.
Toto Wolff “100% Sure” Of Drawing Right Conclusion In The Final Five Rounds Of 2024
The Austin GP upgrade was unbelievably off-target, as the W15 was tough to handle. As a result, George Russell finished sixth, while Hamilton failed to cross the finish line after an unusual spin. The seven-time world champion found himself in the gravel on the same turn Russell had spun into the dirt during an FP session. Thus, both drivers had a terrible outing in COTA, suggesting a change of direction by Mercedes.
However, Toto Wolff has confirmed the team will head in the same direction as they continue to utilize the current upgrade. During an interview with Auto Motor Und Sport, Wolff explained that the upgrade had no drawbacks; instead, the team struggled to understand the aerodynamics. Moreover, he highlighted Mercedes’ lack of consistency since the introduction of the ground effect, as the team remains puzzled by the new regulations.
Despite the tussle with ground effect, Wolff believes the team is not far from completely understanding the concept. He noted that Mercedes is not alone in its struggle, as McLaren and Ferrari also had a tough time deciphering aerodynamics.
Toto Wolff Optimistic About Giving A Hamilton A Memorable Farewell Despite “Outsider Status”
Further, the Austrian executive lamented that his team is back to “outsider status” as they’re again clueless about the upgrade. Regardless of these technical battles, Wolff remains optimistic about giving Lewis Hamilton a “fitting farewell.” Though the seven-time world champion had an aggravating weekend in the US, he would like to finish his Mercedes stint on a higher note.
Moroever, Wolff explained that Russell might not be able to use the new floor till Brazil GP as it has been sent to Britain for repairs. However, the floor remains available for Hamilton, and it will be upto him whether he wants to continue with new specs or revert to the older version. Although Hamilton’s Austin race was cut short on Lap 3, he was cruizing in the first two rounds. Thus, the Briton would be tempted to use the new specification and tweak some parts.
