Petronas Mercedes: A Legacy of Speed and Innovation in Formula 1

Mercedes’ modern Formula 1 journey began in 2010, marking the resurgence of a works team and setting the stage for a period of unprecedented dominance. The team’s launch was met with immense excitement, fueled by the sensational comeback of Michael Schumacher. However, it wasn’t long before the on-track performance matched the hype. Nico Rosberg secured three podium finishes in their debut season, followed by a remarkable pole position and victory double at the Chinese Grand Prix in 2012. The subsequent year saw Lewis Hamilton join Rosberg, forming a formidable partnership that ignited epic title battles. Together, they propelled the Silver Arrows to the forefront of Formula 1, establishing themselves as a dominant force until the rise of Red Bull. Even with the emergence of new talent like George Russell, and the promising arrival of Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes, backed by Petronas, remains a team to watch and a symbol of racing excellence.

2024

Despite securing two victories each for George Russell and Lewis Hamilton with the W15, the season saw an overall drop to fourth place. The year began with a seismic announcement: Lewis Hamilton’s departure to Ferrari at the end of the season, signaling a significant shift in the F1 landscape and for the Petronas Mercedes team.

2023

A challenging year as the W14 proved to be only marginally better than its predecessor, resulting in Mercedes failing to win a Grand Prix for the first time since 2011. However, relentless development and the strong partnership with Petronas ensured continuous improvement, culminating in the team securing second place in the constructors’ championship, surpassing Ferrari in the final round.

2022

Radical regulation changes reshaped the competitive order, and Mercedes’ W13 car design missed the mark, positioning them behind Red Bull and Ferrari. Newcomer George Russell claimed the team’s sole victory of the season and outscored Lewis Hamilton, who experienced his first winless season in his Formula 1 career. The Petronas partnership remained crucial during this period of adaptation and car development.

2021

The turbo-hybrid era dominance faced its most significant challenge yet. Lewis Hamilton narrowly lost the drivers’ championship to Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, despite achieving eight race wins. Nonetheless, the team, with the support of Petronas, managed to secure their eighth consecutive constructors’ title, demonstrating remarkable resilience and teamwork.

2020

Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton reached new heights of performance, further cementing their legacy. Hamilton dominated the season, winning 11 races and breaking numerous records, equaling Michael Schumacher’s record of seven drivers’ titles, even after missing a race due to Covid-19. Valtteri Bottas added two more wins, contributing to another dominant double championship victory for the Petronas supported Silver Arrows.

Read Mercedes’ full year-by-year profile

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