The Silver Arrows emphasized long run sessions over quick lap times throughout the three-day winter test in Bahrain.
On the last day, George Russell secured the third position using the softer C4 tyres, a strategic move after he and teammate Lewis Hamilton deliberately kept a distance from the top of the leaderboard in the earlier part of the week.
Andrew Shovlin, the trackside engineering director, elucidated their focus is still refining their performance for a single lap when Formula 1 resumes in Sakhir on Thursday for the Bahrain Grand Prix free practice.
In Mercedes’ usual social media debrief, Andrew Shovlin explained: “We’re still trying to fine-tune the set-up, there will definitely be more to come.”
“Overall we’re happy, we definitely made progress. In terms of pace, the long run probably looks like our strength at the moment.
“There’s more work to do on a single lap, but we should be in a position to hopefully put in a good showing when we get back on track.”
Since the transition to Formula 1’s fresh set of regulations in 2022, both Hamilton and Russell have grappled with the erratic and “vicious” characteristics exhibited by the Mercedes cars.
Ensuring consistent and compliant handling of the car emerged as a paramount focus for the W15 project. The sustained performance in long runs appears to support Russell’s observation that his car has evolved beyond being a “diva.”
Shovlin further explained: “It’s really encouraging that a lot of the problems that the drivers have been talking about the last 12 and even 24 months with W13 and W14, we seem to have got to grips with.”
Lewis Hamilton expressed satisfaction with the team’s endeavours on the 2024 car. However, he issued a cautionary note, indicating that Red Bull, with its remarkable RB20, will likely maintain a significant lead. The RB20 by Red Bull garnered attention in Bahrain, particularly for Max Verstappen’s outstanding long runs.
