Lewis Hamilton and George Russell Comment On Mercedes W14 After First Shakedown

The W14 has completed its first shakedown. This is what the Mercedes drivers think.

Mercedes recently completed a shakedown of its new W14 at Silverstone, with Lewis Hamilton and George Russell taking turns behind the wheel. According to Hamilton, the day was “smooth” and they were able to get through a good program and come away with some "useful findings". Russell also had positive things to say about the car, describing it as “amazing just to get out there.”

“It has been great to get up and running with the W14,” Hamilton said post-shakedown. “It is always a much-anticipated moment for everyone at the factory that has been working so hard; I’m incredibly grateful for all the effort that has gone in.

“The day has been smooth; we got through a good programme, and we’ve come away with some useful findings. I generally felt comfortable in the car and I’m excited to get going in Bahrain.”

On Wednesday, Russell carried out limited running on the W14, ensuring the day was counted as a demonstration rather than a full filming day. The rules permit only 15km for a demonstration, compared to 100km for a full filming day. On Thursday, Russell returned to the car before handing it over to Hamilton for the rest of the running.

“It was very cold and greasy out there today," Russel said. "But the car ran smoothly, and we completed all the laps we are permitted to do. “We know pre-season testing in Bahrain will be the first real test of the car. [But there were] no major scares and we’re all set for Bahrain next week.”

While the shakedown at Silverstone was a promising start for the W14, the real test will come during pre-season testing in Bahrain. But for now, the Mercedes team can be proud of the work they’ve put in so far, and can look forward to seeing what their new car is truly capable of in the weeks to come.