Mercedes has decided to abandon its «zero-size sidepods» car architecture for the 2024 Formula 1 season, opting for a downwash solution used by the rest of the grid. This change means that the eight-time constructor champion team will have to catch up to Red Bull, which has already had two seasons to develop its own optimal approach to ground effect regulations.
Toto Wolff, head of Mercedes Motorsport, stated in an exclusive interview with Motorsport.com that the team cannot «give up» on its recovery plan, despite finishing in second place for two consecutive years. He expressed the importance of the next two years, seeing them as a test of the team’s strength in recovering and competing for championships.
For 2026, Formula 1 rules will undergo a major change, including the elimination of the complex Motor Generator Unit – Heat from the engines. In addition, the electrified part of the hybrid powertrain will have nearly triple the output, reaching 350kW, creating an equal power split with the turbocharged internal combustion engine of 1.6 liters. Chassis changes will include active front and rear wings, reduced wheel rim size from 18 to 16 inches, and shorter, narrower, and up to 50kg lighter cars.
Wolff warned that the chances of Mercedes returning to the top before these significant rule changes are potentially slim. He highlighted the need to find an optimal point that unlocks more potential and mentioned the importance of drivers having a car they can trust.
Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes driver, also expressed a reserved view on the team’s immediate chances, but he remains hopeful for 2024, believing that the team understands the car better and has developed great tools behind the scenes.
