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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.<\/b><\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
But they fell from their pedestal during the last rules set from 2022-25 and hope this year’s reset will favour them.<\/p>\n
They ran the new W17 at Silverstone on Thursday, with both George Russell and Kimi Antonelli completing time behind the wheel.<\/p>\n
Trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin said in a team statement: “As with any shakedown, the focus is on ensuring everything operates safely and reliably.<\/p>\n
“We were able to get through our allotted mileage. That is testament to the hard work of everyone at Brackley and Brixworth.<\/p>\n
“Our attention now turns to Barcelona where we will look to build on today’s running and add to our understanding of the W17.”<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Mercedes start the year regarded by many as favourites as new chassis and engine rules are introduced.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n