Since 2022, the Mercedes team has tried every possible configuration to unlock its potential. However, it all went in vain as the Brackley-based outfit kept slipping away. The ground effect was the biggest hurdle that barred the technical team from designing a competitive F1 car. While Red Bull was enjoying a dominant run, the Silver Arrows had a string of struggles.
However, after almost two years of dismay, the technical crew has finally pressed the right key. Since the mega upgrade in Miami, the W15 car has undergone a complete transformation. While it looked ‘out of control’ on weekends, the aerodynamic fixes enhanced the balance. As a result, the team had one of the best outings of the season in Canada. Thus, the Silver Arrows are now confident they can replicate the performance in Barcelona.
No ‘Aero’ Changes For Mercedes As The Team Looks Forward To Replicate Canada Run
It all started in Miami when Mercedes introduced a set of mega upgrades. The team, desperate for a comeback, made some clinical tweaks. Along with the track-specific setups, the front wings were trimmed to improve the angle. Further, the underfloor also got some changes, which went unnoticed. Moreover, the strakes went from two to five in the edge wings, along with a geometric upgrade. Later in Imola, the team introduced another set of upgrades.
Shockingly, the team came up with a new rear wings design, which was an attempt to fix a non-existent problem. However, the team tried to follow Aston Martin’s approach but gave it a unique touch. Despite all the rigorous work, the on-track result was identical to the previous races. However, the team principal clarified they are not looking for any ‘overnight miracle.’ Just when he said this, the engineers at Brackley used new front wings, which Red Bull believes are illegal. Conjointly, the aerodynamic woes were no longer strangling the car’s pace; thus, the W15 looked flawless. As a result, the team got a podium finish in the Canada GP and took a sigh of relief.
However, Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya offers a different set of challenges. It is a more conventional track, requiring a precise strategy. While everyone expected more changes from the Brackley-based outfit, Austrian reporter Tobi Gruner confirmed the team would continue with Canada upgrades. On his ‘X’ account, Tobi claimed Mercedes is not bringing any aerodynamic-related changes. However, they will replace some parts with lighter variations to reduce weight. Therefore, seeing a four-way battle on a conventional track of Spanish GP would be interesting.
“We Need Support, Not Negativity,” Hamilton Opens Up On His Relationship With Mercedes
Since Hamilton’s post-race interview in Monaco, the fans have been brutally trolling the Mercedes squad. Tensions have escalated with allegations of the Silver Arrows sabotaging the seven-time world champion. Moreover, his teammate George Russell also had to face the heat, as he was at the receiving end.
Now, Hamilton has clarified all the allegations and asked fans to support the team. In the drivers’ press conference ahead of the Spanish GP, the Briton said he was unaware of the cynical comments made on his team. Further, he claimed they had been a ‘strong team’ together over the years. Furthermore, he emphasized that his previous remarks were made in the heat of the moment and should not be linked to his relationship with the team.