Mercedes is expressing optimism about its potential to challenge Red Bull for the Formula 1 2024 title, citing progress in the development of its W14 car, as revealed by trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin. Despite a challenging start to the season, Mercedes remains committed to returning to the forefront of the championship battle.
After a season with only one victory in 2022, marked by the introduction of ground effect regulations, Mercedes entered 2023 aiming to regain its competitive edge and championship contender status. However, a subpar performance at the season opener in Bahrain led to the abandonment of the controversial zero-pod concept. A revamped W14 was unveiled at the Monaco Grand Prix in May, signifying the team’s determination to improve its performance.
Since the Monaco Grand Prix, Mercedes drivers Lewis Hamilton and George Russell have managed to secure four podium finishes, with Hamilton achieving pole position at the Hungarian Grand Prix in July. Despite these achievements, the team has yet to challenge Red Bull, who have dominated the season by winning all 13 races so far.
Charles Leclerc, a Ferrari driver, recently suggested that Red Bull’s current dominance may continue until F1’s major regulation changes take effect in 2026. Max Verstappen’s 36 wins in the last 57 races have contributed to this perception, considering his title-winning debut season two years ago.
In response to Leclerc’s comments, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner expressed confidence that the gap between the teams would narrow over the next year. During the Dutch Grand Prix, Mercedes’ Shovlin indicated that the team’s primary focus is on challenging for the championship in 2024. He acknowledged that catching Red Bull during the remainder of the current season may be unlikely but expressed optimism about the coming year.
Shovlin explained, “We certainly don’t think like that because our ambition is to be challenging for a Championship next year, so we’re optimistic that we can do that.”
While acknowledging the current limitations within the cost cap and the constraints of the regulations, Shovlin emphasized that Mercedes had undertaken significant design changes to improve performance. He highlighted the team’s ongoing commitment to development and its positive trajectory, pointing out that the aerodynamic adjustments to the W14 have led to improved performance.
Mercedes, currently locked in a battle for second place in the Constructors’ standings with Aston Martin and Ferrari, remains focused on consistency to secure the best possible position in the championship. Shovlin expressed confidence that the team’s adaptable performance at various tracks will play to its advantage in the long run.
As Mercedes continues to fine-tune its W14 car and adapt to the dynamic challenges of the F1 season, the team’s determination to return to championship contention remains resolute. While Red Bull’s dominance has been the highlight of the current season, Mercedes is working diligently to ensure that it can reclaim its competitive edge and vie for the title in 2024.
