Mercedes has announced that it will only make “tiny improvements” to its Formula 1 car for the remainder of the year, with it now “all round” preparing for the changes in the regulations next year.
The Brackley-based team leads both championships after the first four races, but faced a tough challenge from Red Bull in what is expected to be a seasonal duel.
Although Mercedes boss Toto Wolff is aware of the threat Red Bull poses, he has signaled the team’s intention to turn its attention to the new rules rather than continuing the advancement of his challenger from 2021.
Wolff said to Sky Sports F1 at the Monaco Grand Prix on Thursday: “We are obviously working on optimizing the car and understanding the car and the tires.
“But we are in full swing in 2022.
“There will be tiny improvements [to the W12] That will come, but I think it’s better to understand the concept of this year’s car. Here we are looking for a lap time gain. “
The 2022 rule changes will be the largest revision to the technical regulations in F1 history, with the return of the ground effect, simpler front wings and 18-inch tires.
Teams face the dilemma of focusing on the rest of this season while making sure they don’t fall behind in 2022.
Wolff acknowledged the risk of halting development on the W12, but believes the current package will bring more performance.
“We are confident that we can fight for it,” added Wolff.
“This championship is going to take a long time, and we believe there is still lap time left in our car, in our engine and in understanding the setup, instead of adding one or two tenths of downforce.
“The rules for next year will hold for many years to come, and if you start with a disadvantage that will obviously bite you not only for next year but for years to come.”
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