Mercedes has arrived at the Belgian Grand Prix with a targeted three-part upgrade package for its W17 car. These updates aim to improve aerodynamic efficiency and overall stability around the demanding Spa-Francorchamps circuit. The team introduced changes to both ends of the car.
The most visible update is a revision to the front wing endplates. Mercedes has increased the camber along the top edge of the endplate. This modification is designed to improve the front wing’s aerodynamic performance across a wider operating window.
The change also aims to generate cleaner onset flow towards the rear of the car. This makes the W17 less sensitive to variations in ride height and steering angle. It also helps the rear aerodynamic surfaces receive more consistent airflow.
Mercedes also updated its rear corner aerodynamics, specifically the rear drum winglets. The position and span of these small aerodynamic elements, located around the rear wheel assembly, have been revised.
The team states this update has been optimized for evolving airflow conditions and local load requirements. This adjustment targets maintaining aerodynamic stability through different cornering phases and varying track conditions.
The third component of the package is a circuit-specific low-drag rear wing. This wing is tailored for Spa-Francorchamps to reduce downforce and drag. It is designed for the circuit’s long straights, a key characteristic of the Belgian venue.
Mercedes opted to adjust the camber on the upper wing element of the W17’s rear wing. This approach differs from bringing a completely revamped wing assembly to Spa.
During Friday’s practice sessions, Kimi Antonelli topped FP2 after a significant setup change. The team increased the car’s aerodynamic load, which improved speed in the middle sector.
This also enhanced energy deployment and recovery for Antonelli’s W17. Mercedes Trackside Engineering Director Andrew Shovlin noted that an initial low-downforce setup in FP1 caused both drivers to struggle.
George Russell, however, continued to struggle with his car’s setup, finishing eighth in both FP1 and FP2. He was over a second behind Antonelli in the second session.
Shovlin stated that Russell’s gap to Antonelli in FP2 was not representative of his true capability. He mentioned ‘a couple of little issues’ and that Russell had only one attempt at a flying lap.
Team Principal Toto Wolff has previously stated Mercedes prioritizes performance over reliability. He indicated the team would rather ‘dial back a little bit something that is really good, and fix some of the reliability gremlins, than run behind performance.’
Mercedes has secured seven wins out of nine Grands Prix this season, along with nine pole positions. However, reliability issues have cost both Antonelli and Russell points in previous races.
Ferrari and Aston Martin were the only teams not to introduce upgrades at the Belgian Grand Prix. McLaren also brought a new rear wing and the updated Mercedes power unit to Spa.
