P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes Formula 1 boss Toto Wolff has admitted the team was certain that its slim sidepod car design developed at
The Mercedes team, based in Brackley, had achieved eight consecutive Constructors’ titles before the rules overhaul in 2022. However, they struggled after the introduction of ground effect machinery, winning only one race and finishing 454 points behind Red Bull. Despite the difficulties, team principal Wolff praised the team’s unity and spirit. He acknowledged the challenges they faced in managing expectations and maintaining a positive atmosphere. Moreover, Wolff mentioned the strength of the team’s support system and emphasized their no blame culture. The root of Mercedes’ troubles can be attributed to the “zeropod” concept they adopted, leading to a winless season. Nevertheless, Wolff defended the team’s unique approach and their initial excitement going into the 2022 season.