P1racenews AI automatic summary:
How Mercedes joined the F1 distraction brigade with its W15 double suspension
Different teams in Formula 1 often use various tactics to conceal their true innovations from competitors. McLaren featured different floors in their images, while Red Bull concealed the sidepod inlets on the RB20 to maintain secrecy. Some teams take it a step further by intentionally adding distractions, like the fake serrated floor on Alfa Romeo’s launch images last year. Recently, Mercedes added an extra suspension arm in their W15 launch renders, likely as a joke to tease fans. Despite being a humorous addition, it didn’t receive much attention initially due to other significant changes on the car. While the concept of a double suspension arm may seem outlandish, Williams previously faced FIA scrutiny over a similar attempt with separate fairings encasing wheel tethers on the FW42 in 2019. Overall, these tactics aim to divert attention from actual developments and potentially confuse rivals in the highly competitive world of Formula 1.
