Mercedes Formula 1 boss Toto Wolff has revealed that the team’s findings from this weekend’s Australian Grand Prix will guide the development of its 2024 car.
The German marque entered the season encouraged that its revamped W15 challenger had eradicated the “spiteful” rear end characteristics of its predecessors.
But Mercedes has remained a considerable distance behind Red Bull and sits fourth in the Constructors’ Championship amid its worst start to a season since 2012.
Both drivers complained about the high-speed cornering deficit Mercedes had in Saudi Arabia, prompting Wolff to admit there is a “fundamental” correlation issue.
Wolff has hinted that Mercedes will conduct tests in Melbourne this weekend to understand its problems as it aims to avoid a repeat when it introduces upgrades.
“We’ve been hard at work since Jeddah building on the learnings from the first two races,” Wolff said.
“It’s encouraging to see the potential in the W15 but there are also clear areas of improvement.
“We have looked competitive in low and medium-speed corners but high-speed has been a weakness so far.
“We have been working hard to understand why our performance hasn’t reflected our expectations. Improving that is a major focus.
“We hope to make some initial progress for Melbourne, and that work will guide our development in the weeks ahead.
“It’s great to feel the energy and determination running through the factories as we work to unlock the potential of the car.”
Mercedes started the opening two weekends situated near the top of the timesheets but regressed compared to its rivals once the competitive action commenced.
“We left points on the table in both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia,” Wolff added.
“We started off each weekend strongly, running our usual practice programmes, but couldn’t deliver on that initial promise.
“With the chasing pack being so close, maximising the potential of the car each weekend is key.
“Albert Park gives us another chance to show what we can do. It is a great circuit in a great city, with a passionate and vocal fan base, and we look forward to returning.”
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