2022 might not have been the year for Mercedes. After dominating Formula 1 for 8 consecutive Seasons, the Silver Arrows were dethroned by Max Verstappen and Red Bull.
The setback was especially difficult for Toto Wolff who seemed disappointed with the W13’s subpar pace. But as the season progressed, Mercedes picked up steam and claimed a win in Brazil.
Wolff admits the momentum generated in the later part of the season has motivated the team to fight for the front row in 2023. But the Austrian knows Mercedes are still a mile off Red Bull and Ferrari.
Toto Wolff feels Mercedes W14 is not in the same league as Red Bull, Ferrari
Toto Wolff has successfully led Mercedes since 2013, but the 2022 season was a challenge unlike any other. Mercedes were unable to craft a race-winning car as per the new regulations introduced at the start of the season.
However the Austrian is positive about Silver Arrow’s campaign in 2023. He claims his team have learnt from their mistakes and would be improving their approach for the W14.
Wolff clarified, “I think we have understood how we fell back, where the shortcomings are, and where we have gaps in understanding. We’re working hard on putting a car on the ground that has addressed all of that.”
However, the performance of the car can only be judged when it hit the track during the pre-season test. And the Mercedes boss still feels the car isn’t at the same level as his rivals.
He added, “When you’re starting behind by half a second, that it’s going to be difficult to catch up to such great organisations like Red Bull, or Ferrari. We are determined in doing that. But we need to set our expectations at a realistic level.”
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Wolff finds potential in Mercedes W14
Toto Wolff predicts the Mercedes W14 can exceed the tally of its successor. According to him, the experience of failing their expectations and bringing the right upgrades means his team have unlocked the way they can return to the front row.
Wolff feels, “If we perform in the way we hope, then we’d like to be part of the racing at the very front. I think that would be a starting point.”
But the Austrian warned, “But we don’t take that for granted. It could well be that the gaps are like they were at the end of last season.”
The true performance of the W14 can only be studied when it touches the tarmac at Sakhir on 10-12 March. But looking at Red Bull and Max Verstappen’s 2022 campaign, it will be a tough challenge to return to the top of the standings.
