“Hamilton’s Mercedes W14 Lap Time Unveiled”
This Tuesday, Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso took part in the Pirelli tire test at the Jerez circuit in Spain. The highlight was undoubtedly Hamilton’s performance in the Mercedes W14 with a lap time of 1’18″936.
Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso clocked 1’18″752, as reported by Albert Fabrega. While the lap times are interesting, it’s important to note that the sole purpose of this test is 1 for Pirelli, the formula’s official tire supplier.
Both drivers completed extensive testing, with Alonso logging an impressive 156 laps and Hamilton 126. Each has run different tire development programs that contribute to Pirelli’s ongoing research.
The test marked Hamilton’s return to the dreaded W14, the same car he failed to win in the 2022 and 2023 seasons, where Mercedes struggled amid the dominance of the Red Bulls. The long-awaited presentation of the new car, the Mercedes W15, is scheduled to take place on February 14 at Silverstone.
The W15 brought significant changes to meet Hamilton’s key requirements from last season, including a different cockpit position and a lighter gearbox. The team hopes that this news will help Mercedes regain the lead in Formula 1.
An important change in the project is the abandonment of the “xeropod” concept, which has caused challenges in the past two years. The W15 is expected to usher in a new era for Mercedes in F1, delivering more competitive performance than its rivals.
Notably, the W15 will be the last Mercedes car driven by Hamilton in Formula 1. From 2025, he will embark on an exciting journey with Ferrari, with a multi-year contract that will see him reach the age of 40.
The Jerez tire test is just the start of the 2024 Formula 1 season and fans are excited to see how Mercedes will face the challenges of the upcoming race with their new car. Meanwhile, the racing community is waiting to see what the future holds for the British driver and his journey with Ferrari at the F1 circuit.
