P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes has failed for two years to challenge Red Bull and Max Verstappen, but Team Principal Toto Wolff confirms the team will change tact for 2024.
Mercedes is facing the possibility of having its first winless season in Formula 1 in 12 years in 2023. The team has struggled to challenge for the Constructors’ Championship since their eighth title in 2021. The introduction of ground effects regulations in 2022 hindered Mercedes’ success, as their zero sidepod concept proved to be flawed. Currently, Red Bull and Max Verstappen are dominating the sport, with 19 and 17 wins respectively in the 20 races so far this season. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff believes in the meritocracy of F1 and puts the responsibility on his team to come up with a better car and performance to beat Red Bull. There are doubts about Mercedes’ ability to mount a challenge in 2024, with Lewis Hamilton stating that it will be tough to get close before 2026. However, Wolff is more optimistic and confirms that they will make radical changes to the car’s concept for next year. They will focus on developing the car and getting the drivers in the right mindset to attack the competition.
