Mercedes expresses satisfaction with the data collected from its latest challenger, the W15. The team states that there is a significant difference between this season and the previous one in terms of accurate correlation between the wind tunnel and the track for their 2024 Formula 1 car. After a winless season in 2011, Mercedes made significant changes to their latest challenger, the W15. Initially, the team opted to keep the “zeropod” solution, but due to difficulties during the winter period, they decided to abandon this radical innovation. Mercedes announced during the launch that their main goal was to create a more stable car that would eliminate the unpredictable behavior of their previous car, the W14. The pre-season tests for this season were smoother, and Technical Director James Allison is satisfied with the progress made. He mentioned that they were able to work on various configuration changes that would not have been possible once the season started, providing valuable insights for the upcoming races. Lewis Hamilton and George Russell both acknowledged that the W15 is more fun to drive compared to their previous challenger, although they admitted that Red Bull is still out of reach. Allison echoed their sentiments and believes that Mercedes is now in a better position to focus on improving performance rather than constantly solving problems with the car. He acknowledged that they faced significant difficulties last year but emphasized that the current car is much more stable and showed promising pace in long-duration races. However, he also mentioned that there is still work to be done to improve performance in a single lap.
Mercedes’ unsuccessful attempt to optimize a narrow sidepod structure with the latest ground effect regulations was frustrated by the inability to replicate positive simulations on the track. However, Allison states that the Brackley-based team has overcome these challenges, and the W15 performed well in tests as expected. “The car’s response to changes is a significant improvement compared to last year. We can make adjustments and see the car respond according to our simulations, which gives us a lot of confidence in our ability to make changes in the virtual world and make them work on the track,” he added. “This is an encouraging development for us.”
On the last day, it was noted that Mercedes had implemented a modified configuration in its front suspension, which Allison explained to be a custom test component. “We were specifically adjusting the level of anti-dive in the front suspension,” Allison clarified when asked about it. “This kind of change cannot be made between free practice sessions. So, it was useful to have the opportunity to test it extensively today and make our decisions based on that compared to yesterday.”
Like Mercedes, Ferrari has also introduced a redesigned car for 2024 in an attempt to address its difficulties with race pace from the previous season. However, while Allison acknowledges that his former team seems strong in terms of performance in a single lap, he believes that Mercedes still has a slight advantage over the Italian team in race conditions. When asked about Mercedes’ current position, Allison said, “It’s hard to say… Red Bull is leading the pack. If you look at their race today, it’s quite impressive. But there are some strong competitors in the chasing group. Ferrari seems to be doing well, and I believe we are too. Fernando [Alonso, Aston Martin] had a solid race today. So, if I had to guess, those would be the top three competitors, but the exact order is uncertain.” “I think maybe we have looked a little better in the long race but a bit behind Ferrari in terms of performance in a single lap. So, a lot will depend on who has a good week leading up to the race.”
© 2024
Portugal defeats Spain in an exciting football match
Last Saturday, Portugal faced Spain in a football match that will go down in history. The two teams battled it out in a fierce duel, full of excitement and incredible plays. In the end, the Portuguese national team emerged victorious, securing an important win in their campaign.
The game started with Spain showing their offensive power, pressuring the Portuguese defense from the beginning. However, Portugal managed to defend well and counter-attack dangerously. In the 25th minute of the first half, Cristiano Ronaldo opened the scoring with a beautiful header, sending the Portuguese fans into delirium.
Spain did not give up and continued to press for an equalizer. In the 40th minute, Sergio Ramos scored from a penalty, leveling the score. The game remained balanced, with both teams seeking victory at all costs.
In the second half, Portugal came back strong and managed to score the second goal just 10 minutes in. Bernardo Silva took advantage of a defensive mistake by Spain and finished with precision, putting the Portuguese national team back in the lead. From there, the Portuguese team closed ranks in defense and managed to withstand the Spanish pressure until the final whistle.
With this victory, Portugal remains strong in their campaign towards qualification for the next international tournament. The team showed determination and grit, proving that they are ready to face any challenge. The Portuguese coach praised the performance of his players and highlighted the importance of this result for the future of the national team.
The Portuguese fans celebrated the victory on the streets of Lisbon, showing their full support for the team. The players were welcomed as heroes and celebrated with the supporters, promising to continue giving their best in every game.
Now, Portugal is preparing for their next challenge, facing an internationally renowned team. The team is confident and determined to secure another victory. The fans are eager to see what the future holds for the Portuguese team and continue to believe in the potential of their players.
Portugal has shown that they are a force to be reckoned with in world football and are ready to face any opponent. The Portuguese national team continues to surprise everyone with their talent and determination. The whole country is proud of their players and hopes that they will continue to shine in the upcoming games.
