P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes asserts that it still has work to do to be competitive in qualifying trim with its 2024 Formula 1
Mercedes committed to a complete revamp with the W15 challenger to bounce back from a challenging previous two years under the latest ground effect regulations. Despite struggles with the W14 charger last season, both Mercedes drivers faced inconsistency in qualifying. While George Russell’s late dash on the C4 compound lifted him to second place, Mercedes focused on long runs during pre-season testing. Trackside Engineering Director Andrew Shovlin admitted that Mercedes is lagging behind its main rivals in single-lap pace but is optimistic about future improvements. The team aims to showcase better performance once they return to the track, with a focus on ironing out the rear end tendencies of its predecessor. Despite acknowledging Red Bull’s current lead, Lewis Hamilton is pleased with the progress made on the W15 and considers it a positive foundation for the upcoming season.
