Mercedes took a risk when designing the front wing for their new W15 challenger. The upcoming 2024 season will showcase their attempt to create a completely different chassis compared to their previous Formula 1 cars. Recently, Brackley unveiled the W15 challenger, which has sparked controversy. Ferrari and other teams have deemed the front wing of the W15 to be on the verge of being illegal and have filed a complaint against it.
The concern from rival teams is that the front wing may bend while driving at high speeds, giving Mercedes an unfair advantage. The team aimed to recreate the Y250 vortex from previous cars, resulting in a front wing that is borderline illegal and could be in jeopardy if the chassis is deemed unfair. However, reports suggest that the FIA has given the green light to the chassis, not ruling out the front wing as illegal. As a result, Mercedes is heading into the testing session in Bahrain without making any significant changes to the front wing of the W15. Only time will reveal the advantages of the new front wing on the chassis.
In addition to its innovative front wing, the Mercedes W15 Challenger will feature a unique addition to the steering wheel. The steering wheel will have a special button adorned with the logo of the messaging app Whatsapp, representing the long-term partnership between the two giants in Formula 1. This is reminiscent of McLaren’s partnership with Google Chrome, where the collaboration was showcased through the colors around the headrest.
Mercedes drivers, including Lewis Hamilton and Toto Wolff, will utilize the button to communicate with the pit wall during races. Fans worldwide have embraced this addition, viewing it as an exciting development. Mercedes aims to provide their drivers with the best opportunities to win races throughout the season, especially after a disappointing performance in 2023.
Brackley intends to bid a proper farewell to the seven-time world champion, Hamilton, at the end of 2024. Hamilton himself is determined to achieve great results throughout the season and potentially compete for the world championship. Meanwhile, George Russell is also looking ahead, aiming to outscore or at least match his accomplished teammate as they race together for the final time.
According to the Source firstsportz.com