Lewis Hamilton’s 2024 season has taken a thrilling turn. After a rocky start with the revamped W15 car, known for its unpredictability, Mercedes has made key adjustments leading to notable performance improvements.
One of the most significant changes was the decision to remove the updated floor from the car during the Belgian Grand Prix, returning to a previous specification floor. This change came after experiencing issues with the updated floor, especially in high-speed corners at Spa-Francorchamps.
Andrew Shovlin, Mercedes Trackside Engineering Director, explained, “We basically took the car back to Silverstone spec on Friday night. We did that because we had a good race at Silverstone and Spa and Silverstone are not dramatically different circuits in terms of the corner speed range you’re dealing with.” Shovlin emphasized that the team plans to reintroduce the updated floor at Zandvoort.
During the early stages of the season, the W15 car presented several challenges. Hamilton particularly struggled with its unpredictability, while his teammate, George Russell, often outpaced him in single-lap conditions. This added to the team’s concerns, given Hamilton’s reputation as a seven-time world champion.
However, Hamilton’s fortunes began to shift with victories at Silverstone and Spa-Francorchamps. Shovlin credited this resurgence to the team’s improved baseline set-up, which allowed them to make better adjustments from the first practice session. “Improving the car’s set-up from the outset has been instrumental in Hamilton’s recent success,” he stated.
An essential part of this strategy has been the collaboration between Hamilton and Russell. Both drivers were willing to experiment with different set-ups early in the season to unlock the car’s potential. Shovlin noted, “There is a certain style of driving that suits these tyres,” and highlighted how the drivers’ closer set-up preferences have significantly improved their performance.
Adding to the early challenges was the departure of Hamilton’s long-time physiotherapist and coach, Angela Cullen. Cullen, who began her motorsport career as Hamilton’s performance coach in 2015, had a profound influence on his career, contributing to multiple championship wins. Her absence may have impacted Hamilton’s initial performance.
Reflecting on her career, Cullen described her time in F1 as a “huge learning curve,” starting directly at its pinnacle. She later transitioned to IndyCar, continuing her impressive work in motorsport. Hamilton once praised her as “one of the greatest things that’s happened to me in my life,” underscoring her significance.
As the season progresses, Mercedes aims to build on this newfound momentum. With improvements in the W15’s basic set-up and the drivers’ teamwork, the team is well-positioned for stronger performances in upcoming races.
Looking ahead, Mercedes will continue to refine their strategies and set-ups, hoping to maintain their competitive edge and secure more victories in the 2024 Formula One Championship.
Mercedes’ blend of strategic changes, teamwork, and refined car set-ups has driven Hamilton’s impressive comeback in the 2024 season. The journey ahead looks promising as the team aims for continued success.
