P1racenews AI automatic summary:
For the first time since 2012, Mercedes completed an F1 season without Lewis Hamilton in the team’s garage this year.
Mercedes trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin addressed the impact on car development following Lewis Hamilton’s departure after a successful partnership, which saw him secure multiple titles with the team. Hamilton moved to Ferrari in 2024, but struggled to achieve podium finishes. Young driver Kimi Antonelli replaced Hamilton alongside George Russell, who took on a leadership role within the Mercedes team. Shovlin emphasized the importance of simulations and team consistency in car development, noting that driver feedback is not the primary basis for advancements. Despite Hamilton’s exit, the team remained focused on their development strategy and saw potential in the new lineup.
