Mercedes is set to introduce significant upgrades to their W14 car at the Emilia Romagna GP in Imola.
The Silver Arrows are expected to move away from the concept they have pursued since the beginning of the 2022 season, following a disappointing start to the campaign that has seen them struggle to compete with Red Bull.
It became apparent early on, at the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix in March. Mercedes’ design concept from the previous year had been a mistake.
The team had hoped to find untapped potential in the ‘zero-sidepod’ look of their previous W13 model. But it quickly became clear that the new car would be unable to challenge Red Bull.
Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton was the first to admit that they were on the “wrong track” as early as Friday practice in Bahrain.
Team principal Toto Wolff later acknowledged that the W14 design “didn’t work out”. Since then, Mercedes has been playing catch-up with Red Bul. Hamilton admitted he has been “counting the days” until the upgrades arrive.
The upgrades are expected to be significant. Mercedes technical director James Allison returning to the team in place of Mike Elliott. Elliott moved into the broader chief technical officer role.
The team hopes that the changes will allow them to better compete with Red Bull and challenge for the championship once again.
The Mercedes upgrades have been eagerly anticipated by fans and experts alike. Friday’s practice in Imola promises to be an exciting event.
The Emilia Romagna GP will take place on Sunday, May 15. Fans will be watching closely to see if the upgrades can help Mercedes close the gap to Red Bull and improve their chances of competing for the championship this season.
