The Mercedes Formula 1 team believes that Lewis Hamilton has seen greater benefits from the recent upgrades to their W15 car compared to his teammate, George Russell.
After a challenging start to the 2024 season, characterized by inconsistent performance and a narrow operational window, Mercedes has made significant strides with the W15. The team has secured victories in three of the last four races, reflecting a marked improvement in the car’s performance.
Andrew Shovlin, Mercedes’ trackside engineering director, attributed Hamilton’s recent form to the difficulties he faced earlier in the season. “Early on, Lewis found the car more challenging to handle,” Shovlin explained. “As we refined the setup, particularly in P1, the car’s balance improved, and this has greatly benefited Hamilton.”
Shovlin noted that Mercedes’ early struggles involved frequent adjustments that disrupted the car’s balance, making it harder for Hamilton to set up the car compared to Russell. “Initially, Lewis struggled more with the car’s setup than George,” he said.
Despite the current generation of ground-effect cars and tyres not perfectly suiting Hamilton’s driving style, Mercedes’ advancements have leveled the playing field. Shovlin pointed out that both drivers are now demanding similar characteristics from the car. “As the car has become more competitive, the setup preferences of both drivers have aligned,” he noted. “They are both focusing on optimizing the car and learning from each other’s setups to improve performance.”
The early part of the season was particularly frustrating for Mercedes as they consistently finished in positions just shy of the podium. Shovlin admitted that the team felt close to the front but struggled to convert that potential into results. “We were often finishing fifth, sixth, or seventh,” he said. “A slight improvement could have elevated us three places up the grid.”
However, with recent upgrades, Mercedes has been able to secure podium finishes and create a more enjoyable racing experience. Shovlin emphasized the collaborative effort within the team. “Regardless of the car’s pace, our drivers are always contributing to the development process,” he said. “With a faster car, the whole experience becomes more rewarding.”
Overall, Mercedes’ improvements to the W15 have significantly enhanced Hamilton’s performance. Highlighting the ongoing evolution of the car and the team’s commitment to maximizing both driver contributions and overall performance.
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