Mercedes’ journey in Formula 1 represents a compelling narrative of resurgence and sustained excellence. Returning to the grid as a works team in 2010, Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team quickly ignited excitement, marked by the sensational comeback of Michael Schumacher. While initial headlines revolved around this legendary driver, track performance soon took center stage. Nico Rosberg delivered early podiums and a landmark victory in China 2012, setting the stage for future triumphs.
The arrival of Lewis Hamilton in 2013 alongside Rosberg heralded a new era. This formidable duo engaged in captivating title battles, propelling the Silver Arrows to unprecedented dominance. Mercedes became the benchmark in Formula 1, a position they held until challenged by the ascendant Red Bull Racing. Despite the end of their unchallenged reign, Mercedes remains a force to be reckoned with. The team’s current driver lineup, featuring the experienced George Russell and the highly anticipated talent of Kimi Antonelli, signals their ongoing ambition to compete at the pinnacle of Formula 1.
2024 Season: Transition and Change
The 2024 Formula 1 season presented a mixed bag for the Mercedes-AMG Petronas team. Despite securing two victories each for George Russell and Lewis Hamilton with the W15 car, overall consistency proved elusive, leading to a fourth-place finish in the constructors’ championship. A significant announcement at the season’s outset revealed Lewis Hamilton’s impending move to Ferrari at the end of the year, marking a major shift for both the team and the driver.
2023 Season: Development and Resilience
The 2023 season was a year of relentless development for Mercedes. The W14, while not a race-winning car from the start, underwent significant upgrades throughout the year. This persistent effort paid off as Mercedes surpassed Ferrari to secure second place in the constructors’ standings at the final race of the season, demonstrating their engineering prowess and determination. However, for the first time since 2011, the team did not achieve a Grand Prix victory, highlighting the competitive landscape of modern Formula 1.
2022 Season: Navigating New Regulations
The introduction of radical new regulations in 2022 reshaped the Formula 1 grid. Mercedes’ W13 car, interpreting these regulations, did not match the pace of Red Bull and Ferrari. The team found themselves in a battle for ‘best of the rest’. In his debut season with Mercedes, George Russell secured the team’s sole victory of the year and outperformed Lewis Hamilton in the points standings. Notably, for the first time in his Formula 1 career, Lewis Hamilton finished a season without a race win.
2021 Season: Title Fight and Constructors’ Triumph
The 2021 season witnessed the most intense challenge to Mercedes’ turbo-hybrid era dominance. Lewis Hamilton, despite winning eight races, narrowly lost the drivers’ championship to Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing in a season-long duel. Nevertheless, Mercedes showcased their teamwork and consistency to clinch their eighth consecutive constructors’ title, extending their record-breaking streak.
2020 Season: Peak Performance and Record-Breaking Success
The 2020 Formula 1 season marked arguably the zenith of Mercedes’ dominance. Lewis Hamilton achieved a record-equaling seventh drivers’ world championship, winning an astounding 11 races despite missing one round due to Covid-19. Valtteri Bottas added two more victories, solidifying another dominant double championship for the Silver Arrows. Mercedes and Hamilton pushed the boundaries of performance, setting new benchmarks in Formula 1 history.
