Mercedes has confirmed the retention of the new floor upgrade for the remainder of the Dutch Grand Prix weekend following a split-spec test during Friday’s practice sessions. The upgrade, originally introduced at the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps, was met with challenges and led to a reversion to the previous design due to handling issues and a reduction in the Silver Arrows’ straight-line speed.

Mercedes opted for a varied approach in the first practice session at Zandvoort. George Russell’s W15 was fitted with the new floor, while Lewis Hamilton kept the previous specification. Russell’s top performance, which earned him first place in practice, and Hamilton’s seamless transition to the new floor in the second practice session signalled a positive turn in the team’s development.

Andrew Shovlin, Mercedes’ Trackside Engineering Director, cited the difficult conditions during FP1, including strong winds and heavy rain, as complicating factors in assessing the performance of the surface.

“Today was an encouraging start to the weekend. Conditions in FP1 were particularly difficult, with very strong winds and heavy rain, which made it difficult to properly assess the updated surface we brought with us to Spa.

“However, what we have seen seems to be in line with our expectations. Therefore, we will continue the weekend with this equipment on both cars.”

George Russell also commented on the difficult conditions of the day:

“It was difficult out there because of the wind. I can remember it being the windiest conditions I’ve driven an F1 car in in recent years.

“Despite this, the car performed really well and the improved underbody we brought to Spa seemed to work well. The field at the front once again seems to be quite close together. We expect another exciting battle for the podium places for the rest of the weekend.”

The decision to use the new underbody on both cars shows a confidence backed by empirical data and real-time performance on the track. The move is crucial as Mercedes prepares to face stiff competition, particularly from McLaren, who have brought a number of upgrades this weekend, and Red Bull, who are expected to be just a hair’s breadth away in terms of performance.