The summer break disrupted Mercedes’ momentum, which was driving them to top spots every weekend. Due to various issues, the Belgian GP winners failed to finish in the top five. The Silver Arrows used a new floor design during the Belgian GP FP sessions. However, it hindered the pace of W15 and hence was scrapped. Subsequently, the technical team didn’t give up on the floor setup and decided to reinstate it during the Dutch GP.
While the FP1 session was decent, the speed gradually disappeared afterwards. As a result, the Mercedes squad was clueless during Qualifying and the main race. The George Russell and Lewis Hamilton duo got P7 and P8 finishes despite Hamilton’s 3-grid penalty. Now, Toto Wolff has explained the entire fallback and team’s plan for Monza.
“The Team Is Already Working Hard,” Mercedes Chief Confident For A Turnaround In Monza
Mercedes chief Toto Wolff expressed his disappointment after a horrible run on the Zandvoort track. During a media interaction, Wolff praised Hamilton for scoring some points despite being out of position in Qualifying. Moreover, he claimed Russell had to fight with excessive degradation, resulting in a disappointing end to his stint. However, the Austrian executive claimed the team is already working hard to analyze the data to understand the factors behind this failure. Moreover, regardless of the mini window between the next GP, Wolff is hopeful for a solid turnaround. Further, talking about the Monza circuit, Wolff acclaimed it to be different from Zandvoort. The circuit would be quicker due to the asphalt changes made this year.
The Silver Arrows spearhead highlighted the importance of understanding the track resurfacing. Meanwhile, he admitted that Monza is a unique challenge for both the team and the drivers. Therefore, the Brackley-based outfit is eagerly waiting to regain the momentum in front of the Tifosis. Apart from the performance, Wolff is excited for Kimi Antonelli’s F1 FP debut in Italy. When talking about Antonelli’s debut, Wolff praised the Italian fans who were passionate about racing. Thus, this will be a special moment for Kimi, performing in front of a huge home crowd.
Further, the 52-year-old Austrian recalled Kimi’s journey, who joined the drivers’ programme at 12. Thus, his involvement with the team from a young age adds to the excitement of the entire squad. Moreover, Wolff is certain the Italian prodigy will thrive in front of the home crowd. Meanwhile, the Italian fans would also be thrilled to see a fresh face from their ranks in F1. Ultimately, Wolff looks forward to the Friday practice, hoping Kimi will kickstart the enthralling session.
Mercedes To Announce Kimi Antonelli’s Contract For 2025 Season
While Antonelli is set to taste the excitement of the F1 world, another surprise awaits. According to a report by PitDebrief, Mercedes will officially announce Kimi Antonelli as George Russell’s partner for the upcoming season. The announcement is expected ahead of the Italian GP, with all the formalities being completed.