Wolff gives a disappointing update on the W15 ahead of Imola GP

Despite Mercedes bringing their first upgrade package of the season this weekend to the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, Team Principal Toto Wolff has revealed that the W15 will need “several races” to make further gains.

The Brackley based team have had a very underwhelming start to this season. After having two back-to-back difficult campaigns in 2022 and 2023, this year has so far brought about even more problems for Mercedes on the track.

The W15 has seriously struggled to compete with the likes of Red Bull, Ferrari and even McLaren in 2024, with the Woking based team securing victory last time out in Formula 1 as Lando Norris secured his maiden win in the sport at the Miami Grand Prix.

However, whilst these three teams seem to be quite a distance ahead of the others, Mercedes could only muster a P6 and P8 result in the sunshine state as they currently find themselves fighting in the midfield pack.

The two main issues of the W15 have been its lack of downforce as well as its difficult handling issues that have made the car’s rear quite temperamental at times this season and also more of a challenge to find grip with their tyres.

Wolff more pessimistic than optimistic

After bringing a floor upgrade to Florida, Mercedes will deliver their first proper upgrade package of the season at Imola. However, Speaking to the media, including motorsport.com, Wolff has determined that their 2024 challenger will take “several races” to make further steps.

“The first six races have not been straightforward, but we have built a clear understanding of where we need to improve and shaped a clear path forward to tackle that,” Wolff said.

“It will be several races before we see this bear fruit, but everyone is working hard to bring them as soon as is possible.”

“In the meantime, we will be looking to maximise the package we have. We are bringing some more updates to Imola and hopefully they push us in the right direction.”

Feature Image Credit: (Photo by Bryn Lennon – Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images)