SUMMARY
- George Russell praises Mercedes W15's improved drivability over W14 during 2024 pre-season testing, despite modest performance.
- Russell completes 122 laps in the W15 during testing, prioritizing learning over chasing performance.
As the 2024 season is kicking off, Mercedes driver George Russell recently commented on the Mercedes W15. While taking a quick test, the driver praised the car’s improved drivability compared to its predecessor, W14. Despite a modest start in pre-season testing, Russell is hopeful about the car’s potential. Silver Arrows landed on P2, right behind Red Bull in the constructors’ standing by a massive 451-point margin.
Mercedes aims to bounce back from a winless season, investing heavily in their 2024 challenger to regain championship contention. However, the Brackley-based team has been undergoing internal challenges due to the latest developments and Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari. Despite promising a better final year under the Mercedes banner, the Briton received a lucrative deal due to his newfound partnership with Prancing Horse, which has been reported to be worth $100 million.
George Russell reviews pre-season test debut with W15
Russell had his first official drive in the W15 during the initial pre-season testing, completing 122 laps on representative tires. While his lap times were average, Mercedes prioritized a comprehensive testing program over quick times. As their motto remains the same as last year, i.e., to dethrone Red Bull as champions, but also reclaim the top podium spot, a position they held for much of the last decade.
⚠️ | We likely won’t see Mercedes’ true performance until next week.
George Russell:
“Today was about learning and not about chasing performance.”
“We’re focused on ourselves at this test, and it will only be next week where we see where we stack up against the others.”#F1 pic.twitter.com/XuYH2fyMdo
— Fastest Pitstop (@FastestPitStop) February 21, 2024
According to the 26-year-old driver, “It was great to drive the W15 for the first time today…We know that it’s not about the feeling, but the speed. Nevertheless, today was about learning and not about chasing performance. We’re focused on ourselves at this test, and it will only be next week where we see where we stack up against the others.”
The team finished second overall last year but failed to win a race for the first time in 12 years, a setback they aim to overcome. Technical director, James Allison addressed the drawbacks from last year by focusing on improving the ‘spiteful’ rear axle and providing more driver reassurance.
Mercedes’ F1 front wing legality clarified
On the first day of 2024 Formula 1 pre-season testing, the spotlight is on Mercedes’ innovative front wing design. Specifically, the focus is on a slender piece of carbon fiber linking the top flap to the nosecone. Despite speculation, the design has not sparked any legal controversies among rival teams.
The FIA has confirmed its compliance with its regulations, which mandate that only the top section of the front wing can reveal its rear edge.
According to Mercedes team principal, Toto Wolff, “What’s being put on a car is always following a, let’s say, exchange with the FIA all through the process. It’s no such thing that you have a clever idea, and then you bolt it on the test, and you think that could be or couldn’t be challenged. So, I feel we are in an OK place [regarding legality].”
Contrary to rumors, the FIA has been in communication with Mercedes throughout the design process, confirming its legality.