RB Merc Brazil GP (motorsportweek.com)
Mercedes Formula 1 Technical Director, James Allison, acknowledges the challenges his team faces amid Red Bull’s dominance in the 2023 season. Despite Mercedes’ previous success with eight consecutive Constructors’ Championships, the return to ground effect aero has seen them struggle, securing only one victory and trailing Red Bull by 454 points.
Reflecting on Red Bull’s resilience during their period of limited success with underpowered Renault engines, Allison admires their commitment to core principles. He believes that preserving these principles during challenging times has contributed to Red Bull’s recent success and suggests that Mercedes should adopt a similar approach.
“Allison acknowledges that Red Bull’s current performance is a result of sticking to their task during a challenging period, reaping the benefits now. He finds the process enjoyable as long as the team is confident in making the right moves to re-establish itself as a competitive force.”
While Allison anticipates more challenges for Mercedes in their bid to reclaim the top position, he expresses confidence in the team’s ability to gradually close the gap to Red Bull. With a revised concept on Mercedes’ W15 challenger, Allison is optimistic about addressing the rear-end issues of its predecessor.
Despite positive signs from the simulator, Allison remains cautious about Mercedes’ prospects until he sees the competition on the track. He emphasizes the typical apprehension teams feel at this stage of the year, acknowledging the need to wait until the cars are tested in real racing conditions to gauge their true performance.