F1 News: Mercedes To Change "Every Component" On W14 For 2024

Mercedes is trying everything possible to win next year.

After enduring a highly challenging 2023 season, Mercedes is trying everything possible with its 2024 W15 Formula 1 car, including changing almost every component from its predecessor to improve its chances of winning next year. 

Despite narrowly securing P2 in the Constructors' Championship by three points ahead of Ferrari, it was clear that their W14 F1 car was no match for Red Bull's dominance. 

The source of the problem was routed to a wrong decision pertaining to its car's aerodynamic platform. The team introduced several upgrade packages from the Monaco GP, meant to act as corrections and improve performance, but nothing worked. 

Though Mercedes has adopted a new design approach for their 2024 car, team principal and CEO Toto Wolff explained the extent of the changes being made, which includes changing almost every component of the car. He told the media:

“We are changing the concept.

“We are completely moving away from how we laid out the chassis, the weight distribution, the airflow.

"I mean, literally, there's almost every component that's being changed because only by doing that, I think we have a chance. 

“We could get it wrong also. So, between not gaining what we expect, to catching up and making a big step and competing in the front, everything is possible.” 

When asked if there was a sense of optimism or skepticism for next year, Wolff preferred being cautious. He added:

“I have never in my life felt optimistic about anything. 

“It may sound a bit miserable, but it's protected me about managing my expectations and just pushing harder. Because I think it's never good enough. That's why I sit here with a bittersweet feeling. We won P2 [in the constructors’ championship], but we lost P1.” 

When asked if P2 in the Constructors' Championship was something to celebrate or move on about, the team boss said:

“I think we need to take it on the chin, be humble about it and consider it a good day. Nevertheless, there's a Mount Everest to climb in order to catch up with Red Bull. 

“I have no doubt that McLaren is going to be right in the mix next year, and maybe Aston Martin and maybe others. 

“We must leave no stone unturned, which we do in Brixworth and Brackley. And as tough as it is to be reminded that it's just P2, it's also a great, great opportunity to come back and strive for the stars.”