Mercedes’ 2024 Season
The 2024 F1 season posed numerous challenges for Mercedes, ending with their lowest standing since 2012—fourth place. This decline impacted not only the team but also legendary driver Lewis Hamilton, who is preparing for an emotional farewell. Amidst this transition, George Russell has emerged as Mercedes’ leading driver, marking a pivotal chapter in the team’s history.
Disappointing Results: A Season to Remember
Despite finishing in a relatively disappointing position, Mercedes secured five victories during the ground-effect era and earned 59 more points compared to 2023—a year where they failed to secure a single win. These results underscore the team’s resilience in building competitive cars capable of winning.
However, sliding to fourth in the Constructors’ Championship remains a significant letdown. The season was also a turning point marked by Lewis Hamilton’s departure. His 104th career win at the British Grand Prix was not only a personal triumph but also a moment of collective pride for the team. Hamilton’s decision to join Ferrari in 2025 has sparked widespread speculation about who will fill his shoes.
George Russell: Mercedes’ New Number One Driver
With Hamilton’s departure, George Russell is stepping into the role of Mercedes’ lead driver. This position presents a fresh challenge for Russell, who has been overshadowed by Hamilton for much of his career. The 2024 season showcased Russell’s growing prominence as a star ready to lead the team into the future. Russell’s impressive 2023 performance included two podium finishes and a consistent ability to challenge both Hamilton and other competitors, with a 15-9 lead in qualifying and race results. His growth has laid a strong foundation for Mercedes in the coming years.
The W15 Car: Mercedes’ Enigma
The W15 car for the 2024 season was a critical development in Mercedes’ history. The team initially decided to continue with their “zero-sidepod” design but quickly discovered its flaws. Fundamental architectural changes brought unforeseen challenges, including Hamilton’s complaints about the cockpit positioning. Despite delivering three out of Mercedes’ four wins, the W15 faced significant issues. While it excelled in cooler conditions, it struggled in higher temperatures. This inconsistency underlined the need for better integration of components to handle varying race environments.
Mercedes’ Future: Andrea Kimi Antonelli
With Hamilton’s imminent departure, Mercedes has turned to young talent Andrea Kimi Antonelli as his replacement. Antonelli, a promising rookie, will play a crucial role in shaping the team’s future. His arrival brings fresh hope and revitalized energy to Mercedes. As Antonelli joins the team, George Russell will assume greater responsibility as both the lead driver and a guiding figure for Mercedes’ future endeavours. This transition signifies a major shift for the team, requiring adaptation to new dynamics.
An Ending and a New Beginning
The 2024 season has closed a chapter full of memories in Lewis Hamilton’s storied career with Mercedes. His 83rd victory at the British Grand Prix serves as both a milestone and a fitting conclusion to the Hamilton-Mercedes era. As this chapter ends, a new one begins with the rise of Andrea Kimi Antonelli and George Russell’s leadership.
Fans eagerly await the next phase for Mercedes, where the blend of experience and youthful talent promises an exciting future. This legendary team is poised to write the next pages of its legacy, striving for new heights in Formula 1.
