From Motorsport · Stuart Codling · · 1m 20s
Mercedes Bahrain GP Upgrade Question
Mercedes' big Bahrain GP upgrade still a big question mark.
In brief
Mercedes' big Bahrain GP upgrade still a big question mark. Mercedes' major aerodynamic update for Bahrain GP faces uncertainty due to poor performance on Sepang's abrasive track. Originally reported by Motorsport.
Mercedes' Bahrain GP Upgrade
Mercedes introduced a major aerodynamic update package for the Bahrain GP after a circuit Formula 1 hasn't visited since 2017.
Qualifying Challenges
Kimi Antonelli set fourth-fastest time after a track-limits violation in Q2 left him with only one set of Pirelli C4 soft tyres for Q3.
W17 Upgrade Details
The W17 features a new floor with major revisions to the leading edge, diffuser, and rear wheel furniture, plus a redesigned sidepod profile.
Track Surface Issues
Sepang's abrasive asphalt surface has caused Mercedes to lose time on straights and experience excessive understeer during low-speed turns.
Team Concerns
Team boss Toto Wolff described the W17's performance as 'things we haven't seen all year' due to the track's unique conditions.
“We've been a little bit caught out on Friday with some car behaviour that we didn't see all year.”
Qualifying Impact
George Russell was eighth fastest despite the upgrade, with both Mercedes drivers gaining grid positions due to Isack Hadjar's engine penalty.
Performance Uncertainty
Mercedes' W17 upgrade shows improved numbers but poor lap times on Sepang's rough track make it a 'big question mark' for the Bahrain GP.
“That is the big question mark”
The essence
Mercedes' major aerodynamic update for Bahrain GP faces uncertainty due to poor performance on Sepang's abrasive track.
