Mercedes plans to test out “some interesting concepts” in the final two grands prix of 2017 as it prepares for next season.
Its racing team wrapped up its fourth consecutive constructors’ and drivers’ championship double early.
“In its preview for the Interlagos race, Mercedes pledges to ‘become a little bolder’, test new parts and carry out ‘experiments’ that would be too risky if it was still fighting for titles,” Autosport reported.
“It might be tempting to think that, with both championships now secure, the pressure is off for the two remaining races of 2017. That couldn’t be further from the truth,” Mercedes motorsport boss Toto Wolff told Autosport. “Inside the team, we are looking at the next two race weekends as the first two grands prix of 2018. We have two races that we are determined to win in order to take that positive momentum into the winter.”
A Blazing Competition
Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton clinched his third title in four years in the Mexican Grand Prix two weeks ago. New to the Mercedes team, Valtteri Bottas trails Vettel by 15 points in the fight to finish second in the drivers’ championship.
It’s a good thing Mercedes brakes are so reliable. This team doesn’t plan on slowing down anytime soon.
“As recent rounds have shown, winning grands prix is never easy,” Wolff told Autosport.
“Red Bull have taken two victories in the past four races and, although we have claimed the other two, Ferrari remain formidable opponents. With the championship now settled, the battle for 2018 has already begun.”