Mercedes’ modern Formula 1 journey began in 2010 with the formation of their own 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 their on-track performance that soon dominated headlines. In their debut season, they achieved three podium finishes, all courtesy of Nico Rosberg. Rosberg then secured a momentous pole position and victory double at the Chinese Grand Prix in 2012, signaling the team’s growing competitiveness.
Alt text: Nico Rosberg celebrates his victory at the 2012 Chinese Grand Prix for Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team.
The subsequent year marked a pivotal moment as Lewis Hamilton joined Rosberg, creating a formidable driver pairing. This duo engaged in epic title battles, propelling the Silver Arrows to unprecedented dominance and establishing them as one of the most powerful forces in modern F1 history. While Red Bull has recently challenged their supremacy, Mercedes, now featuring proven race winner George Russell alongside rising star Kimi Antonelli, remains a top contender in the sport.
Alt text: Lewis Hamilton and George Russell driving their Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One cars during a Formula 1 race.
2024
The 2024 season saw Mercedes slip to fourth in the constructors’ standings, despite George Russell and Lewis Hamilton each securing two victories with the often unpredictable W15 car. A major announcement at the start of the season revealed Hamilton’s impending departure to Ferrari at the end of the year, adding another layer of complexity to the team’s campaign.
2023
In 2023, Mercedes experienced their first winless season since 2011. The W14 car proved to be only marginally better than its predecessor. However, continuous development efforts throughout the season enabled the team to overtake Ferrari and secure second place in the constructors’ championship at the final race.
Alt text: The Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team W14 Formula One car racing on a track during the 2023 season.
2022
The introduction of radical new regulations in 2022 significantly reshaped the competitive landscape. Mercedes’ W13 car did not fully meet the challenge, positioning them as the third fastest team behind Red Bull and Ferrari. Newcomer George Russell achieved the team’s only victory of the season and outperformed Lewis Hamilton, who experienced his first winless season in Formula 1.
2021
The 2021 season presented the most significant threat to Mercedes’ turbo-hybrid era dominance. Lewis Hamilton narrowly lost the drivers’ championship to Max Verstappen of Red Bull, despite winning eight races. The team, however, managed to secure their eighth consecutive constructors’ title, highlighting their resilience and consistent performance.
Alt text: A view of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team garage during a Formula 1 race weekend, showcasing team expertise and organization.
2020
Just when it seemed Mercedes had reached their peak, they elevated their performance even further in 2020, particularly Lewis Hamilton. The reigning champion achieved a record-equaling seventh drivers’ title, winning 11 races and breaking numerous records, despite missing a race due to Covid-19. Valtteri Bottas added two more victories, solidifying another dominant double championship win for the Silver Arrows.