Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team 2013

[Cam]

I'm convinced Brawn knew the test would be exceedingly risky, but I think it represented a long-term strategic objective and their actual aim was to embed a sizable Mercedes W0x-lineage-specific data-set in Pirelli's research database. Any tyres Pirelli tyres developed in the next few years, or tyre choices made for particular circuits, will now be influenced by this data set.

Agreed! Which contradicts the findings that there was no bad intent.

However, the Tribunal was adamant that there was no deliberate intent from either party to cheat.

It said: "The track testing, which is the subject of these proceedings, was not carried out by Pirelli and/or Mercedes with the intention that Mercedes should obtain any unfair sporting advantage."

The ruling continued: "Neither Pirelli nor Mercedes acted in bad faith at any material time... Both Pirelli and Mercedes disclosed to FIA at least the essence of what they intended to do in relation to the test and attempted to obtain permission for it; and Mercedes had no reason to believe that approval had not been given."

While we must accept the findings, IMO, Merc gambled this test with a plan to make it happen. They knew it was risky. They knew they needed a loophole. That in itself shows intent that they were trying to gain an advantage. But, the record states differently. It's all resigned to the history books now.

[FoxHound]

Did Mercedes approach Pirelli?

I believe it was Pirelli who initiated, conducted and paid for the test. Therefore how could this be by "design" on Mercedes side?
Will 2014 tyres suit Mercedes? Quite possibly.

But have we even touched on the WHY?
FRICS anyone?

Forget machiavelian conspiracy theories. If half came true, Mercedes would be badged Nissan in f1, Brawn would be toast and the kings would all have fallen on their swords.
Other teams are toying with FRICS, and the associated knock on effect it will have comparable to the gain(tyre usage vs stability).
It makes complete sense to at least delve into testing a 2014 spec tyre that will be relevant to front running teams, or Pirelli risk another lambasting from red bull/unhappy team. Mercedes have run FRICS longest, and in its more advanced form.

The relevance of Mercedes in this, is that they can at least pursue developments that aren't hindered by factors outside of their control(tyres). Any team wishing to pursue said avenue can also benefit from the test.
From an idealist perspective, it makes sense if the formula is trying to veer away from any particular area of development holding sway from the other. Engines will be addressed, aero will be addressed, and tyres that don't suit a particular mechanical set up will also be addressed.

In terms of tyres, the how is quite pertinent. As Pirelli will have accumulated 1000kms testing on 2014 tyres versus the countless Kms of the current tyre will give them ample information as to how they proceed.
They have their mandate after all. And if we are to go down the road of favouritism we should not forget Ferrari had the benefit of running on this years tyre with far more freedom than Mercedes did in the W04.
I'm sure there will be some detraction towards some facets of the post, but the spirit of what I'm attempting to get through should be crystal clear, I'm hoping.

[FoxHound]

And, as a final preemptive caveat, who gets to decide whom gets lineage specific data?
Renault powered teams have held a monopoly here.
Ferrari have had their cake, and ate it.

Fill in missing space.

[bhall]

[...]

Add to that the strengthened bond Mercedes now has with Pirelli and this whole endeavor could be considered a master stroke only outdone by their obtaining a seat on the FOM board.

This is the most ridiculous thing I've ever read here.

If you disagree that's fine, but there's no reason to be a knob about it.

I don't see it as ridiculous.
[...]

Obviously.

Mercedes has no doubt gotten the better end of the deal during recent events. But, when you start talking about "strengthening bonds" between supplier and client, it's probably time to drink another flavor of Kool Aid.

[Cocles]

Mercedes has no doubt gotten the better end of the deal during recent events. But, when you start talking about "strengthening bonds" between supplier and client, it's probably time to drink another flavor of Kool Aid.

I believe Pirelli will now view Mercedes through a favored lens, because Merc was the only team willing to risk using a 2013 car, giving Pirelli the data they desperately needed. --That is the most ridiculous thing you've ever seen on this forum.

...Thanks for letting us know?

[elf341]

While we must accept the findings, IMO, Merc gambled this test with a plan to make it happen. They knew it was risky. They knew they needed a loophole. That in itself shows intent that they were trying to gain an advantage. But, the record states differently. It's all resigned to the history books now.

Moreover, no other team could possibly attempt this idea again. It reminds me of the 2012 testing season where Mercedes tested the W02 on 3 of the 4 days at Jerez, and then discovered a loophole that would allow them to test the W03 for a full extra day alone at Barcelona, just prior to the first Barcelona test. When Lotus had to go home as they had chassis issues, they tried to pull the same trick to catch up on /their/ lost time, but by then the loophole had been "clarified" by the FIA and firmly closed.

Brawn is a shrewd operator, and his ability to identify, and exploit risky loopholes makes him an asset to Merc. But I don't kid myself that other teams don't also do shady things. Red Bull in particular is a whole other can of worms.

[stefan_]

Paddy in Merc gear.


via Ted Kravitz

[turbof1]

Oh wow, no offense to him, but I never realised he is that skinny.

[NewtonMeter]

Oh wow, no offense to him, but I never realised he is that skinny.

He's a genius engineer. What do you expect? I know a couple of those. Bet he likes starwars too.

(That is intended jokingly)

[astracrazy]

he looks ill, has Ron been keeping him in some jail somewhere and starving him

anyway enough of the jokes. I wonder if Paddy will be the key to unlocking Hamilton in the Merc. You have to think that paddy would know the breaking system Lewis was using at Macca and can surely bring bring Merc up to speed with what Lewis' requirements actually are? Lewis is obviously giving his input on it, but paddy will be able to get that engineering input to do it

Paddy being at Merc i would imagine benefit Hamilton quiet a bit

[cherok1212]

he looks ill, has Ron been keeping him in some jail somewhere and starving him

anyway enough of the jokes. I wonder if Paddy will be the key to unlocking Hamilton in the Merc. You have to think that paddy would know the breaking system Lewis was using at Macca and can surely bring bring Merc up to speed with what Lewis' requirements actually are? Lewis is obviously giving his input on it, but paddy will be able to get that engineering input to do it

Paddy being at Merc i would imagine benefit Hamilton quiet a bit

[-o<

[Forza]

From the interview in Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung

Paddy Lowe, Bob Bell, Aldo Costa and Geoff Willis: How many top Mercedes engineers you still need?

I think we have enough . Actually it’s perfect, as every one of us has an unique task. At the moment, Bob takes care of this year's car, Aldo manages the 2014er-car, and Geoff cares about what is important in 2015. We are very well positioned.

Full interview http://www.faz.net/aktuell/sport/formel ... 63002.html

[Cocles]

I'm glad they (or it was at least translated as "top engineers"). The journalists and commentators keep referring to Mercedes and their multiple technical directors, which sounds benign, but I've recently found a number of fans actually think each of these guys holds the title "technical director" at Brackley.

[Goran2812]

so merc solved their tire issue after that secret test... people just can't say that the test didn't help... everyone else probably feel like dumbasses after this...

[munudeges]

Well........yer. Especially when they were instantly two seconds a lap slower in races as soon as they started.