Aston Martin can learn from Mercedes response to 2021 rule changes, says Team Principal

Aston Martin Team Principal Otmar Szafnauer has urged his team to learn from rivals Mercedes’ response to the 2021 aerodynamic rule changes. Szafnauer’s Racing Point squad were challenging for a podium at the Bahrain Grand Prix on November 29, 2020. The same re-branded Aston Martin squad could only manage a best of P10 on their debut at the track on March 28, 2021. This indicates the massive decline in the team’s performance following the regulation change. Mercedes similarly struggled early on during the early stages, but have made a comeback with a triumph in Bahrain, which is impressive.

“I think for sure we have to look and see what type of lap times they are able to do,” said Szafnauer when asked about his opinion on Mercedes and the way they adapted despite a similar low rake philosophy.

“We have the same powertrain, the same gearbox, same rear suspension so if they are able to do some of those lap times, we should be able to get close – so that gives us some hope,” he added as quoted by the official website of Formula 1.

Threat from McLaren and Ferrari

At the same time, Szafnauer is wary about the likes of McLaren and Ferrari who are incredibly competitive in nature. These teams will certainly add to Aston Martin’s problems, considering the formation of a midfield which looks quite interesting.

“I think a lot of the teams are a lot closer to Mercedes this year than they were last year, including Red Bull, McLaren and Ferrari,” he said.

“I mean if you look back to see where Ferrari were three months ago and where they are now to Mercedes – just have a look at the lap times and that will give you a picture,” added Szafnauer.

The Aston Martin Team Principal revealed there is no clarity over a switch in development from the 2021 car to focus on 2022, in light of their potential struggles this year.

“The trade-off has to be, how much more can we gain this year at what expense for next year and that is really, really hard to predict. So at this time we’re going to keep going in parallel,” he concluded.