Mercedes’ journey back to the pinnacle of Formula 1 began in 2010 with the formation of their own works team, setting the stage for an era of unprecedented success. The announcement of Michael Schumacher’s sensational return immediately created buzz, but it was on-track performance that truly captured attention. Nico Rosberg delivered early highlights, securing three podiums in their debut season and a momentous pole position and victory double at the 2012 Chinese Grand Prix.
The arrival of Lewis Hamilton in 2013 marked a turning point. Paired with Rosberg, the duo engaged in thrilling title fights, propelling the Silver Arrows to dominance and establishing them as a modern F1 powerhouse – a reign challenged only recently by Red Bull. However, with established race winner George Russell now alongside rising star Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes remains a formidable contender on the grid.
2024: Transition and Hamilton’s Farewell
Despite securing two victories each for George Russell and Lewis Hamilton with the often unpredictable W15 car, Mercedes slipped to fourth in the constructors’ standings. The season was overshadowed by the shock announcement of Lewis Hamilton’s departure to Ferrari at the end of the year, signaling a significant shift for the team and the F1 driver landscape.
2023: Development and Resilience
Mercedes endured a winless season for the first time since 2011 as the W14 car showed limited improvement over its predecessor. However, consistent development efforts allowed the team to overtake Ferrari for second place in the championship at the final race, demonstrating their commitment to progress.
2022: Navigating Rule Changes
Radical regulation changes reshaped the competitive order, and Mercedes’ W13 car fell short of expectations, positioning them behind Red Bull and Ferrari. George Russell achieved the team’s solitary victory, notably outperforming Lewis Hamilton, who experienced his first winless season in Formula 1.
2021: Title Fight and Constructors’ Glory
Mercedes faced their toughest challenge in the turbo-hybrid era. Lewis Hamilton narrowly missed out on the drivers’ championship to Max Verstappen of Red Bull, despite securing eight race wins. Nevertheless, the team showcased its strength by clinching an unprecedented eighth consecutive constructors’ title, highlighting their depth and consistency.
2020: Dominance Redefined
Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton reached new heights of performance. Hamilton dominated the season, winning 11 races and breaking numerous records on his way to equalling Michael Schumacher’s seventh drivers’ championship, even after missing a race due to Covid-19. Valtteri Bottas added two more wins, securing another dominant double championship for the Silver Arrows and cementing the legacy of Mercedes F1 drivers.
