Red Bull claims Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes were sandbagging during Bahrain pre-season testing 

Lewis Hamilton and George Russell gave positive verdicts about W15 after Beharin tests.

Red Bull claims Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes were sandbagging during Bahrain pre-season testing 

Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen (via IMAGO).

F1 pre-season testing has concluded after a three-day event at the Bahrain International Circuit. While it’s too early, to say anything about how the championship will turn out this season, Red Bull’s advisor, thinks that Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes perhaps were downplaying during the preseason testing.  

During the preseason media interaction, it was seen that both Mercedes drivers had given positive feedback regarding their W-15. Mercedes completed a total of 361 laps during the preseason testing. Hamilton even stated that the new car is better than its predecessors, as well as that they have learned a lot during the preseason testing which will help them build a good foundation for the upcoming season. Red Bull’s advisor, Dr. Helmut Marko, stated that he thinks Mercedes is concealing their actual performance when talking about where the teams stand following 2024 preseason testing.

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As for Mercedes, I’m uncertain about their approach. They’re definitely faster than what they’ve shown us.
Marko Helmut said (H&T: silverarrows.net).

Based on Marko Helmut’s analysis, Ferrari seems to be experiencing more issues with tire performance than Red Bull once again. McLaren also seems a little jittery. Despite Mercedes’s performance in preseason testing, Marko believes that they can still maintain confidence. 

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Lewis Hamilton praised Mercedes’ preparation after preseason testing

Lewis Hamilton called the efforts of Mercedes’ employees in the winter and pre-season testing in Bahrain “massively encouraging.” Mercedes trails Red Bull by a considerable margin going into 2024 following two difficult campaigns. While speaking to media during pre-season testing both Mercedes drivers seemed to have claimed that this year’s W-15 felt more nicer. While giving his views on the same Lewis Hamilton said,

Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton
Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton (via IMAGO).
Overall, it’s been a really good test. I’m really proud of everyone trackside and those back at the factory. Every single woman and man has been working tirelessly, both at Brackley, Brixworth, and here in Bahrain. It’s massively encouraging and great to see everyone working so well together. The focus, determination, and communication is the best I’ve ever seen.
Lewis Hamilton said, (H&T: formula1.com).

Hamilton acknowledged that they have not reached their desired goal, but they were aware of this during the test and have a solid foundation for growth. He stated that they plan to review all test data and are eager for the season to begin next week, ensuring they are prepared for it with a strong foundation.

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