Mercedes also pushes updates
At Mercedes the alarm has not yet gone off, but certainly a wake-up call has, at least to introduce updates on the W17.
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The early season advantage has significantly diminished, both because Brackley introduced only one major development package (in Montreal), and because the rivals have improved, as well as due to the many technical problems that cost Kimi Antonelli and George Russell heavy zeros. Therefore, it is necessary to push the accelerator again on developments. However, according to colleagues at Autoracer, they will still be delayed a few races before debuting on track.
Sepang optimistic target
As we reported a week ago, Toto Wolff’s team will have some novelties at Zandvoort, but these will be secondary introductions. From what emerges, Mercedes intends to debut the second update package between Sepang (just added to the calendar between Baku and Singapore for the weekend of October 4) and the Marina Bay weekend.
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Mercedes’ production times and initial assessments leaned towards Singapore, but the calendar change could alter the scenario. Sepang is a complete track, suitable for the proper evaluation of the novelties, and running an additional GP essentially with the Montreal car could be a risk in light of the growth of Ferrari and McLaren. Which, moreover, will have important novelties between Zandvoort and Baku. Not to mention a Red Bull that has been on the podium in three of the last four GPs thanks to Max Verstappen. Finally, the Singapore weekend is a Sprint weekend, offering less time to test the package compared to Sepang, where the usual three free practice sessions will be held.
In light of all this, it is not surprising that Mercedes is at least considering accelerating the update schedule. The decision will be made in any case upon returning from the summer break.
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