© Sebastian Kawka for Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix ltd.
By Carol M. Creasey
The Formula One teams arrived in Bahrain for three more days of testing before the first race of the 2022 season this Sunday. The new shape of the Mercedes with minimal sidepods attracted a lot of attention from all the teams, and just like last year, Red Bull has been quick to state that it was not legal.
However, as the car has been designed in communication with the FIA, Mercedes had already ensured it would not violate any rules. Naturally because its design was different, it attracted a lot of interest, and because it did not appear to be the fastest car on the grid, the team was accused of sandbagging.
When he was interviewed after testing Lewis Hamilton was in good spirits, however he admitted that they were trying to ‘tame’ the car, while the windy conditions and the sand flying about did not help to keep it stable. He also said it must be the same for other teams as well. On Thursday he had posted the fifth fastest time, and on Friday he was fourth, some six tenths off Carlos Sainz in the Ferrari, and two tenths off Max Verstappen in second.
He did not seem frustrated or upset, and when asked he said he was certain that his team would iron out all the teething problems. Lewis loves a challenge, and together with his team, he will take it on, and do his utmost to conquer it. He was asked, if the race was held that weekend, who would win, and he responded by saying Ferrari, with possibly Red Bull in second.
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On the final day of testing it was no better. Lewis posted the ninth fastest time in the morning, and George Russell was fourth in the afternoon (fifth after an additional hour of testing for Haas). Although rivals continue to accuse Mercedes of sandbagging, Lewis has warned that the problems will not be fixed in a week, so to expect them to immediately win races is unrealistic.
But it’s not all doom and gloom for the fans. Last year Mercedes started off on the back foot, and by the last four races, Sir Lewis was unbeatable. Mercedes are a great team, this is why they have won eight Constructors’ Championships in a row, and that’s why I know they will be working hard to give Lewis and George a car capable of competing for wins.
Lewis and George are both hyped up to perform well, and once the mysteries of the new Mercedes have been revealed, it will happen. No matter who wins the first race, there’s a long season ahead.
Be sure to follow Carol on Twitter @eagertogo and visit her website www.carolmcreasey.com!
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