The Mercedes W15.
Mercedes has moved to quash speculation over the purpose of a recent test involving George Russell, Mick Schumacher and Kimi Antonelli, ahead of a fresh testing session in Barcelona.
Mercedes junior driver Antonelli – a contender to join the team’s line-up for F1 2025 as they search for Lewis Hamilton’s replacement – has been getting his first taste of Formula 1 machinery this year, having tested their 2021 challenger, the W12, at the Red Bull Ring and then the ground-effect W13 at Imola.
Mercedes shut down Silverstone test ‘shootout’ speculation
Antonelli took control of the W13 once again at Silverstone, accompanied by reserve driver Schumacher and Hamilton’s current teammate Russell for a Testing of Previous Cars event.
Mercedes has dismissed the speculation that labeled this test as a “shootout” between Schumacher and Antonelli. They have clarified that this was not the intention of the test.
Schumacher and Antonelli are set to resume their TPC responsibilities, testing the capabilities of the W13 at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in the near future.
Mercedes has announced that their upcoming TPC (Testing of Previous Car) test will take place in Barcelona next week. The W13 (2022 car) will be driven by Mick and Kimi, as stated by the team.
It is not surprising that there has been a great deal of speculation regarding the purpose and content of these private tests.
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“The recent TPC test in Silverstone featured Mick, Kimi, and George. However, it was mistakenly referred to as a “shootout,” despite the fact that it was neither intended nor yielded such outcomes.”
It is crucial to comprehend that each driver underwent distinct programs, on separate days, under diverse track and weather conditions.
Regrettably, baseless conjecture has resulted in the dissemination of inaccurate conclusions and unfounded comparisons, deviating from the actual events.
Mick and Kimi have both achieved exceptional results in delivering their individual programs, fully meeting the team’s expectations. We are excitedly anticipating another three days of intensive activity next week as well.
After leaving Haas in 2022, Schumacher joined Mercedes as their reserve driver. Meanwhile, the 17-year-old Antonelli is currently participating in his first season in Formula 2. He currently holds the sixth position in the Drivers’ Championship standings, with his highest achievements being three fourth-place finishes.
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