George Russell claims the Mercedes W15 is ‘enjoyable and easier’ to drive

The British driver had a long-distance simulation during preseason testing in the afternoon wit W15 at Behrain.

George Russell claims the Mercedes W15 is ‘enjoyable and easier’ to drive

George Russell (via IMAGO)

Mercedes driver George Russell debuted the W15 in the official pre-season test in Bahrain, allowing him to familiarize himself with the new car. Despite finishing in 12th place on day one he has very positive reviews about the car. This is mainly because Mercedes focused on set-up changes and data accumulation rather than setting times. 

Russell’s program started with quick laps to complete aerodynamic measurements using rakes, which marked a dramatic shift in Mercedes’ mindset. The W14 was intended for a different philosophy, which resulted in its limitations when it came to the Red Bull concept in 2023. Russell’s feedback regarding the car, after testing day one was optimistic. 

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Overall, the W15 is more enjoyable to drive than last year's car. But we know it's not about feel, it's about speed. However, today was about learning and not chasing performance. We are focused on ourselves in this test, and only next week will we see how we stack up compared to the others.
George Russell said via motorsports.com.

Starting from scratch, the W15 sought to address these flaws, which included excessive sensitivity and erratic behavior. Mercedes’ philosophy has changed significantly for the W15 in comparison to the W14 of last year. Toto Wolff stated that the goal of the new car’s development was to improve handling for greater driver confidence during a press conference honoring Team Principals.

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George Russell detailed Mercedes’ goals during the test days

George Russell is upbeat about the new Mercedes W15, saying that it is more drivable than the model that came before it. Despite a lackluster showing in the first preseason test, Russell thinks the car has a lot of potential. He feels that speed, not comfort, is the true test of a Formula 1 competitor’s success. While talking with the media he said,

George Russell and Lewis Hamilton
George Russell and Lewis Hamilton (Via: Imago)
We will be focused on maximising mileage for learning rather than chasing an optimum sweet spot with the car. Overall, the W15 does feel nicer to drive than last year’s car. We know that it’s not about the feeling, but the speed. We’re focused on ourselves at this test, and it will only be next week where we see where we stack up against the others. It was a positive first day and I’m looking forward to being back in the car on Friday.
George Russell said.

Mercedes has put a lot of work into creating the W15 in the hopes that it will help them win back some games and avoid going out of the championship. Russell completed 122 laps in his first official drive in the W15 during pre-season testing. Mercedes was more concerned with finishing a rigorous testing program than with lap times.

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