Mercedes’ modern Formula 1 journey began in 2010 with the formation of a dedicated works team, setting the stage for a remarkable ascent in the world of Grand Prix racing. The team’s launch immediately captured attention, largely due to the sensational comeback of Michael Schumacher. However, it wasn’t long before the team began making headlines on the track itself. Their debut season saw three podium finishes, all secured by Nico Rosberg. Rosberg continued to spearhead Mercedes’ progress, achieving a momentous pole position and victory double in China in 2012. The subsequent year marked a pivotal moment with the arrival of Lewis Hamilton, who joined Rosberg to form a formidable partnership. This duo went on to engage in legendary title battles, driving the Silver Arrows to unprecedented dominance and establishing Mercedes as a powerhouse in modern F1 – a reign that lasted until the emergence of Red Bull’s challenge. Looking ahead, with the experienced race winner George Russell now alongside rising star Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes remains a force to be reckoned with in the ongoing pursuit of racing excellence.
2024
Despite securing two victories each for George Russell and Lewis Hamilton with the somewhat unpredictable W15 car, the team experienced a drop to fourth place in the overall standings. The season commenced with the stunning announcement of Hamilton’s departure to Ferrari at the end of the year, adding an element of significant change to the team’s future landscape.
2023
For the first time since 2011, Mercedes did not achieve a Grand Prix victory. The W14 car showed limited improvement over its predecessor. Nevertheless, consistent development efforts allowed the team to overtake Ferrari for second place in the constructors’ championship in the final race of the season, demonstrating their resilience and determination.
2022
Major regulation changes reshaped the competitive order, and Mercedes’ W13 car did not meet expectations. This placed them as the third strongest team, trailing behind Red Bull and Ferrari. New team member George Russell secured Mercedes’ only win of the season and outperformed Lewis Hamilton, who experienced his first winless season in his Formula 1 career, marking a significant shift within the team dynamic.
2021
Mercedes faced the most significant challenge to their turbo-hybrid era dominance yet. Lewis Hamilton, despite winning eight races, lost the drivers’ championship to Max Verstappen of Red Bull. However, the team narrowly maintained their position in the constructors’ championship, securing their eighth consecutive title, highlighting their enduring strength and consistency.
2020
Just when it seemed Mercedes had reached their peak, they – and particularly Lewis Hamilton – elevated their performance even further. Hamilton achieved victory in 11 races and broke numerous records on his way to securing his seventh drivers’ title, equaling Michael Schumacher’s record, even after missing a race due to Covid-19. Valtteri Bottas added two more wins, contributing to another dominant double championship victory for the Silver Arrows, cementing their place in F1 history.
