Mercedes drivers hope for a “more stable and predictable” W15 than the W14

Remember, last year at the same time as today: Mercedes then persisted in its “zero pontoon” concept and claimed to have found the key to making their car, driven by a growing optimism with the victory in Brazil in 2022. Result: the W14 was no better than its predecessor, with no victory, a first for the Silver Arrows since 2011! This Wednesday, during the presentation of the W15, the comments already seemed more measured and cautious.

“We have learned and grown over the past few seasons”

No more talk of victory, even less of a title in official communication: Mercedes first wants to concentrate on the progress of its car, in order to make it more drivable for its drivers, Lewis Hamilton and George Russell. Associated for the third (and final) consecutive season, the 100% British pair have high hopes in this new W15, encouraged by the work carried out behind the scenes by the women and men of Brackley (United Kingdom).

“We have learned and grown as a team over the past two seasons, says George Russell. It hasn't been a cakewalk, but I truly believe that the adventure we've had will make us stronger in the long run. The whole team has worked very hard and we hope to have taken a step forward with the W15. »

“The lessons of the last two years have helped us find our direction, adds Lewis Hamilton. This allowed us to find our 'polar star'. It is still a work in progress, but we will face any challenges that come our way with our heads held high, with an open mind, and we will work diligently. »

A new rear axle, the solution to Mercedes' problems?

One of the main areas of development on the W15 was the rear axle: Mercedes completely reworked its rear axle in order to make the car less unpredictable, which was one of the major flaws of the W14 in 2023. “If you're not comfortable with the car, you can't get the maximum performance out of it. A more stable and predictable car will allow us to extract the potential not only from the car, but also from ourselves as drivers.", underlines Lewis Hamilton.

A hope also carried by his teammate George Russell, who wants a larger operating window. “We made progress on some of the more difficult features of the W14 throughout last year. But we still had a narrow operating window and as soon as we got out of it the car was difficult to drive, explains the latest Grand Prix winner for Mercedes. If we can continue to widen the operating window of the car it will give us confidence as drivers and from there lap times will be easier to come by. »

The W15 will also be the last Mercedes that Lewis Hamilton will drive in his career in Formula 1, he who will join Ferrari in 2025. The seven-time world champion hopes to be able to repay his team for the work they have done in recent seasons and leave in style. “I know what this team is capable of. I am incredibly grateful for the work of every person on this team. Every time you are in the factory, you can see the motivation and determination of everyone. We are all very motivated for the year ahead and we will give everything we have for the journey ahead of us. »

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