The Canadian GP was another encouraging event for Mercedes, with the W14 validating the strong race pace and consistency shown at the Catalunya circuit two weeks ago.
Although Mercedes celebrated their 2-3 finish in Barcelona, there were concerns that the Spanish circuit’s characteristics (much like in 2022) concealed some of the weaknesses of their weaknesses.
These fears have been brushed aside after the W14’s performance in Canada, as Lewis Hamilton secured another podium and stayed within touching distance of Fernando Alonso.
Aston Martin’s update package gave them a notable advantage last weekend, elevating the AMR23 and responding to the recent development introduced by the Silver Arrows.
Still, the gap between Mercedes and Red Bull – especially compared to the first rounds of 2023 – has been significantly reduced.
Perhaps more importantly, the correlation issues that have plagued the German outfit since the start of 2022 have been resolved:
“Now what the car does [on track] correlates with what we are measuring in the simulations,” Toto Wolff explained after the chequered flag in Montreal – per Motorsport-Total.
“And it hasn’t done that for a year and a half.
“Nevertheless, you have to keep both feet on the ground. Alonso in the Aston Martin is still a threat. And Max is even stronger up front.
“It’s not about third or fourth place for me either. It’s really a learning curve to get better, and then at some point compete for victory.”
These comments confirm our report after the conclusion of the Spanish GP, in addition to the general consensus that Mercedes’ new philosophy is the correct one for long-term success.
James Allison’s return to a more active role in the team has been instrumental and will become of even greater significance in 2024 for the W15’s development.
Even in the short term, however, Mercedes has managed to make significant changes and immediately find performance – a positive omen for the overall potential of their package.
Although Red Bull still sits comfortably on the F1 throne, there are reasons to be optimistic about the chasing pack’s chances of further closing the gap.
Author: Jaden Diaz-Ndisang
