P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes expects this weekend’s Spanish Grand Prix will provide a “stern test” towards validating the recent progress the team has made with its 2024 Formula 1 car. The marque’s sluggish start was dispelled in Canada as it emerged as the most competitive team in dry conditions to bag pole position and third with George Russell. […]
The team had a slow start but showed strong performance in Canada, with George Russell securing pole position and finishing third in dry conditions. Mercedes made improvements with a new front wing in Monaco, aiming to address earlier balance issues. Mercedes Technical Director, James Allison, remains cautious in assessing the team’s progress and awaits feedback from evaluating upgrades on a more traditional track like Barcelona. The upcoming race at Barcelona will serve as a crucial test to determine if Mercedes can consistently compete at the front of the grid. Allison emphasized the importance of drivers getting the tires in the correct operating window, particularly after Lewis Hamilton’s qualifying struggles in Canada. He highlighted the challenges drivers face in managing tire temperatures on the out lap before their flying lap, as even small variances can impact performance significantly. Allison stressed the fine margins in Formula 1, where the smallest errors can result in losing valuable time and positions on the grid.
