Toto Wolff is focusing on the positives as Mercedes strives to improve the performance of their W15.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff admitted the team made “too many set-up changes” in China last time out, which put them on the “back foot” for the remainder of the weekend.
After securing a front row and podium position in the Sprint, Lewis Hamilton experienced a drastic turn of events as he was eliminated in Q1 a few hours later. This unexpected outcome prompted him to confess that he and George Russell had opted for different car set-ups in an attempt to improve their performance in the W15s at Shanghai.
Toto Wolff: First Mercedes upgrades of 2024 coming in Miami
Despite Hamilton’s impressive performance in wet conditions during Sprint qualifying on Friday, it was disappointing to see him fall behind in the race. However, he managed to make a comeback and secure points.
There is a chance for Mercedes to reset this time around however, with the Miami Grand Prix also being another test of the new Sprint weekend format and two separate parc fermé periods through the weekend.
In addition to Wolff acknowledging the car set-up adjustments, he also confirmed that the W15 will receive its initial upgrades of the season in Florida this weekend.
Wolff expressed his readiness for the first US race of the year in Miami.
With the second Sprint of 2024 approaching, the team will face another intriguing test on this demanding circuit.
In China, our performance fell short of our best due to excessive set-up changes before qualifying. As a result, we were at a disadvantage for the remainder of the weekend. However, our drivers showcased commendable skills by securing points for the team.
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In Miami, our goal is to improve our performance and maximize the potential of our car.
“We are aware that we require enhanced performance and are set to introduce our initial round of minor upgrades for the season during the upcoming weekend.”
The team considers Miami as one of the most hectic off-track events of the year. Additionally, we had an amazing time in New York alongside our partner WhatsApp.
The expansion of both their brand and F1 in the US is truly impressive. It is remarkable that we were able to take control of the Empire State Building and organize a demonstration run down Fifth Avenue.
“The highlighted impact of our sport in the USA emphasizes our anticipation of further expanding and building upon that growth.”
“We are excited to have a packed schedule of events in Florida and anticipate a rewarding week both on and off the track.”
Mercedes enters the weekend holding the fourth position in the Constructors’ Championship, trailing behind third-placed McLaren by 44 points, and significantly behind the dominant leaders Red Bull by a margin of 143 points.
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