F1 News: Mercedes Set for Bold Design Overhaul Ahead of 2025 F1 Season

Mercedes is gearing up for major changes to its Formula 1 car ahead of the 2025 season. The team’s Trackside Engineering Director has indicated that they are planning significant design updates as they prepare for upcoming regulatory shifts in 2026.

With just a year left before these changes take effect, Mercedes is focused on maintaining its competitive edge in a challenging landscape. The team is currently evaluating whether to keep the existing chassis and gearbox or to implement a new design. They acknowledge that while changes are necessary, they must balance innovation with the performance of the current car.

“We haven’t made decisions yet on does the chassis stay the same?" Mercedes's Trackside Engineering Director Andrew Shovlin said. "Does the gearbox stay the same? The reality is you probably can’t change everything."

Mercedes has recently seen improvements in performance, winning three of the last four races. They are now in fourth place in the Constructors' Standings, with 292 points, trailing Ferrari, who sits in third with 407 points.

"We’re at a stage now where we’re trying to evaluate those to look for the best return for your spend in the cost cap. However, I think, aerodynamically, our car and most people’s cars will be an evolution of what we have today.

“There’ll be significant changes on there but you won’t want to change the architecture of the car and take a big hit in the wind tunnel that you then have to recover. I don’t think many people will be doing that."

As they look to the future, the departure of seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton at the end of the season adds another layer of transition for the team. Rising star Andrea Kimi Antonelli is set to join George Russell as Hamilton's replacement in 2025.

The current Constructors' Standings reflect the competitive nature of the season, with Red Bull Racing leading with 446 points, followed closely by McLaren at 438 points. Mercedes is working hard to ensure they remain a strong contender as they navigate these changes.

2024 F1 Constructors' Standings

1. Red Bull Racing - 446 points

2. McLaren - 438 points

3. Ferrari - 407 points

4. Mercedes - 292 points

5. Aston Martin - 74 points

### 2024 F1 Drivers' Standings

1. Max Verstappen - 303 points

2. Lando Norris - 241 points

3. Charles Leclerc - 217 points

4. Oscar Piastri - 197 points

5. Carlos Sainz - 184 points

6. Lewis Hamilton - 164 points

7. George Russell - 128 points

As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on how Mercedes adapts to these changes and the impact on their performance on the track.