Hamilton hinted to reporters that the lack of the upgraded wing might have played a role in Russell's better qualifying performance in Monaco. While Mercedes only had one front wing available at the time, it seems Hamilton's voice has been heard.
"We've made sure both Lewis and George will have all the same upgrades for Canada," Wolff told reporters. "We understand Lewis' frustrations in Monaco, and it wasn't ideal. However, with limited resources, a strategic decision had to be made."
Monaco's tight, twisty street circuit isn't known for extensive testing, but the new front wing appeared to benefit Russell,who secured his best finish of the season – P5. Looking ahead to the Canadian Grand Prix, Wolff revealed more than just a new wing is on the table.
"The Canadian track presents a different challenge," Wolff explained. "We've developed a package of upgrades, including the front wing tested in Monaco, that we believe will give both drivers a fighting chance to close the gap to the front of the pack."
The fight for the 2024 championship is heating up, with Red Bull currently holding a significant lead. Mercedes, once the dominant force in F1, has struggled to match the pace of Ferrari and Red Bull this season. These upgrades signal a renewed effort from the Silver Arrows to get back into contention.
While the exact details of the upgrade package remain undisclosed, speculation suggests the focus might be on improving aerodynamic performance and downforce. The long straights and high-speed corners of the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal could be a good match for a more aerodynamically efficient Mercedes car.
This move by Mercedes also highlights their commitment to fair treatment within the team. Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, is a veteran driver used to having the best equipment at his disposal. Addressing his concerns publicly and ensuring equal footing with his teammate goes a long way in maintaining team morale.
However, questions remain about whether these upgrades will be enough to bridge the gap to Red Bull. Ferrari has also shown strong performance this season, making the fight for the podium even more competitive.
"We're under no illusions about the challenge ahead," Wolff admitted. "Red Bull has been exceptional this year. But these upgrades are a step in the right direction. We're confident they'll give our drivers a chance to fight for the win, and that's all we can ask for at this point."
The Canadian Grand Prix promises to be a pivotal race for Mercedes. With Lewis Hamilton back on an equal footing and new upgrades on the car, the pressure is on to deliver. Can Mercedes use this race to signal their return to form, or will Red Bull continue their reign at the top? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure: the battle for the 2024 championship is far from over.
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