Mercedes secured first place in Montreal for the first time this season. The 1996 champion believes that Mercedes will face a significant challenge in the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix. Despite a slow start to the 2024 season, the team showed promising speed during the event in Montreal.
Mercedes achieved their first podium in Montreal with a strong performance in difficult conditions, finishing in third place. The seven-time world champion, on the other hand, had a disappointing afternoon and finished in fourth place. However, from the team’s perspective, it was the best result of the season.
Damon Hill expressed his thoughts on Mercedes’ impressive performance, stating that the W15 car will face a tougher test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in two weeks. The track is known for its medium to high-speed sections, which test the aerodynamic performance of a car.
Mercedes can rely on the experience of Lewis Hamilton, as he has been dominant at the Barcelona circuit, winning six times. This will give the team an advantage if they can effectively utilize their upgrades. Meanwhile, George Russell will be determined to secure a victory after missing out in Montreal, despite starting on pole for the first time in two years.
According to a Technical Consultant from Red Bull, Mercedes is closing in on Red Bull after their strong performance in Canada. Although Red Bull won the race, they faced strong competition from Mercedes and McLaren.
Helmut Marko commented on the conditions during the Canadian GP, which allowed McLaren and Mercedes to gain ground on Red Bull. He also noted that Ferrari had difficulties in the same conditions, despite being considered the most promising team before the race weekend.
Marko, however, remains confident in his team, stating that Red Bull is still the team to beat after their impressive victory in Montreal. Red Bull currently holds a 49-point advantage in the constructors’ championship against Ferrari, who suffered a double retirement in the Canadian GP and will be seeking a recovery in Barcelona.
