How W15 made a blistering comeback in Formula 1 2024 after a shocking start? - Explained

The 2024 Formula 1 season has been nothing short of a rollercoaster for Mercedes. Starting as the fourth fastest team, the Silver Arrows seemed out of sorts in the early races, with both Lewis Hamilton and George Russell struggling to secure top finishes. However, by the time the F1 circus reached Belgium, Mercedes had emerged as the fastest team on the grid.

This remarkable turnaround, driven by engineering excellence and strategic upgrades, has left fans and competitors alike in awe. The early season saw Mercedes grappling with the aftermath of their ill-fated "zero-side-pods" concept, a carryover mistake from previous seasons that had initially set them back.

Even when they pivoted to a more conventional design, similar to that of their rivals, the W15 still lagged. At the start of the season, the car was no match for the likes of Red Bull, Ferrari, and McLaren. The best result for the W15 before May was a fifth-place finish at the Bahrain Grand Prix.

What was the turning point in the W15 journey?

The turning point came in Monaco, where Mercedes introduced a crucial upgrade to the W15’s front wing, tested by George Russell. The new design, which featured a longer second element, allowed for better downforce generation, particularly in corners.

This upgrade was a significant step forward, but it was the less visible, ongoing changes to the car’s floor that truly transformed the W15's performance. These updates, though hidden from the public eye, addressed the core balance issues that had plagued Mercedes since the introduction of the ground effect in 2022.

The first real signs of a Mercedes resurgence were seen in Canada, where George Russell secured the team’s first podium of the season, with Lewis Hamilton close behind. From that race onwards, Mercedes enjoyed a renaissance, winning three of the next six races. This mid-season surge was not just a result of a single upgrade but a culmination of careful, incremental improvements that addressed the W15’s fundamental flaws.

As the season enters its critical second half, all eyes are on Mercedes to see if they can maintain their newfound form. The upcoming races will be a true test of the W15's versatility, particularly on the fast tracks of Monza and Azerbaijan, where top speed is paramount. While the W15 has struggled in this area, Mercedes' ability to adapt and overcome has already been proven.