F1: The history behind Mercedes' success in the sport

Mercedes is arguably the most successful brand in Formula 1. Legendary drivers like Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton have represented the team over the years, helping them maintain their glorious reputation on the back of consistency and impressive performances. While fans may certainly be aware of Mercedes’ heroics in F1, it is doubtful whether they know the history behind the brand. The “Silver Arrows” as they are referred to because of being instantly recognizable by their traditional silver colour, have witnessed their fair share of struggle along the journey.

Let us take a look at the history behind Mercedes’ success in Formula 1:

Early Years – The Mercedes-Benz marque was created following a merger between two German companies Benz & Companie Rheinische Gasmotoren-Fabrik (Benz & Cie) and Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft (DMG) in 1926. The new company was named Daimler-Benz (currently known as Daimler AG). Daimler-Benz and its “Silver Arrows” dominated racing in Europe from the 1930s onwards, under the leadership of legendary team manager Alfred Neubauer. They produced numerous legendary cars like the Mercedes-Benz W25, which were driven by greats like Rudolf Caracciola.

Entry Into Formula 1 – Mercedes entered Formula 1 in 1954, with the team introducing their latest vehicle: the Mercedes-Benz W196; under the leadership of Neubauer. The machine ran in two configurations: as an open-wheeler and a wider streamlined version. Argentine driver Juan Manuel Fangio, the 1951 World Champion joined Mercedes from Maserati, was a part of the German team’s debut at the 1954 French Grand Prix.

First Full Formula 1 Season – Mercedes recorded its first full season in Formula 1 in 1955, with numerous drivers making an appearance for the German outfit. Andre Simon, Stirling Moss were some of those racers. While the team was dominant with five wins out of a total seven races, they suffered a horrible tragedy at the 24 Hours of Le Mans race on June 11, 1955. Mercedes driver Pierre Levegh lost his life with numerous other spectators killed in a crash that hurled the racer into the crowd. This resulted in Daimler-Benz withdrawing from F1 after the season ended.

Comeback to Formula 1 – Mercedes made a comeback to Formula 1 in 1994, with Daimler Benz acquiring an enhanced share. They eventually became the sole owners in 2005. The team entered into a partnership with McLaren in 1995, with the partnership emerging as an extremely successful one.

In 2010, Mercedes featured in Formula 1 as a works team and were rebranded as Mercedes GP Petronas Formula One Team. The first season saw Michael Schumacher make a comeback to F1, having retired after the 2006 season. Mercedes finished the campaign in 4th place with the team unable to hit their peak till the 2013 season, when Lewis Hamilton was announced as Schumacher’s replacement. The 2014 season was when it all came together for the side, who never looked back following regulation changes which ushered in the “V6 Turbo-Hybrid Era”