Mercedes say they had a “sensible” first day’s running with the car they hope will return them to the front of Formula 1 in the sport’s new rules era.
Mercedes became the most successful team in history during the period 2014-21, with eight consecutive constructors’ titles and seven drivers’ championships in a row.
But they fell from their pedestal during the last rules set from 2022-25 and hope this year’s reset will favour them.
They ran the new W17 at Silverstone on Thursday, with both George Russell and Kimi Antonelli completing time behind the wheel.
Trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin said in a team statement: “As with any shakedown, the focus is on ensuring everything operates safely and reliably.
“We were able to get through our allotted mileage. That is testament to the hard work of everyone at Brackley and Brixworth.
“Our attention now turns to Barcelona where we will look to build on today’s running and add to our understanding of the W17.”
Mercedes will join the other 10 teams for the first pre-season test, which is being held behind closed doors with no independent media allowed, at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya next week. Teams are allowed to run on a maximum of three of the five test days.
Mercedes start the year regarded by many as favourites as new chassis and engine rules are introduced.
Rivals fear Mercedes, along with Red Bull’s new powertrains department, have found a loophole in the rules that allows them to run the engine at a higher compression ratio than defined in the rules.
