P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The Mercedes 2022 challenger experienced porpoising and bouncing issues, while drivers Lewis Hamilton and George Russell complained about rear-end handling instability on the W14 successor. This led Mercedes to change its concept for 2024, abandoning the size-zero sidepod architecture in search of a more predictable and consistent platform. Despite the new W15 being developed, it also showed temperamental behavior, suggesting a disconnect between wind tunnel data and on-track performance according to Mercedes motorsport boss, Toto Wolff. Wolff highlighted the team’s effort in addressing weaknesses in their recent ground-effect creations, emphasizing the need to resolve discrepancies between tunnel findings and real-world outcomes. Reflecting on the challenges faced, Wolff emphasized a ‘no blame’ culture within Mercedes and stressed the importance of identifying and rectifying complex issues to stay competitive in the challenging F1 landscape.
