Mercedes’ modern Formula 1 journey began in 2010 with the creation of their works team, setting the stage for a remarkable ascent in Grand Prix racing. The team immediately captured attention with the sensational comeback of Michael Schumacher, but it was on-track performance that truly made headlines. Their debut season saw three podium finishes, all thanks to Nico Rosberg, who then secured a groundbreaking pole position and victory double in China in 2012. The following season, Rosberg was joined by Lewis Hamilton, and together they engaged in legendary title battles as the Silver Arrows dominated, becoming one of the most formidable forces in modern F1 history – until Red Bull emerged to challenge their reign. Despite this shift, with proven race winner George Russell now alongside rising star Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes remains a team to be reckoned with, boasting a rich history of exceptional drivers.
2024: Hamilton’s Ferrari Announcement and W15 Inconsistency
The 2024 season saw Mercedes slip to fourth overall, despite George Russell and Lewis Hamilton each securing two wins in the somewhat unpredictable W15. The season’s start was overshadowed by the shocking announcement that Lewis Hamilton would be departing for Ferrari at the end of the year, marking a significant shift in the Formula 1 driver landscape.
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2023: Development Push Secures Second Place
2023 marked a rare winless season for Mercedes, the first time since 2011, as the W14 proved to be only marginally improved from its predecessor. However, consistent development efforts throughout the year allowed the team to ultimately overtake Ferrari for second place in the constructors’ championship at the final race of the season, demonstrating their resilience and commitment to improvement.
2022: Russell’s Victory in a Year of Rule Changes
Radical changes to Formula 1 regulations in 2022 significantly altered the competitive order. Mercedes’ W13 car fell short of expectations, positioning them as the third-best team behind Red Bull and Ferrari. In this challenging year, newcomer George Russell achieved Mercedes’ sole victory and notably outscored Lewis Hamilton, who experienced his first winless season in his illustrious Formula 1 career.
2021: Verstappen Challenge and Eighth Constructors’ Title
The 2021 season presented the biggest challenge to Mercedes’ turbo-hybrid era dominance. Lewis Hamilton narrowly lost the drivers’ championship to Red Bull’s Max Verstappen in a highly contested season, despite securing eight race wins. Nevertheless, the team managed to clinch their eighth consecutive constructors’ title, highlighting their continued strength and depth as a team.
2020: Record-Breaking Hamilton and Dominant Double Championship
In 2020, Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton reached new heights of performance. Hamilton won 11 races and broke numerous records on his way to securing his seventh drivers’ world championship, equalling Michael Schumacher’s record. This achievement came despite Hamilton missing a race due to Covid-19. With two additional wins from Valtteri Bottas, Mercedes secured another dominant double championship, further cementing their place in Formula 1 history.