Update | Mercedes refutes: we completed homologation weeks ago

According to the Italian branch of Motorsport.com the new W13 did not pass the static test on the side of the car. At Red Bull this would have been the frontal test. So both teams would not yet have an FIA -approved car.

'Mercedes didn't pass crash test'

For Mercedes, this would mean that the team would have to go to plan B and, like Red Bull, would be delayed. Both teams would come up with a more 'extreme' design to gain the maximum aerodynamic advantage, with the result that both cars would need some tinkering before being approved.

Mercedes is said to have conducted the same test in the meantime with a solution that is not within the rules. This of course does not allow the team to repeat the official test, but it would mean that they are on the right track to a solution.

Meanwhile, time is running out. With less than a month to go until the first winter test in Barcelona, ​​the top teams still seem to be busy fine-tuning their newolides, still pushing the limits. This is in contrast to Ferrari , for example, which already had the new car ready in December including approval from the FIA.

Update | Mercedes refutes

According to Motorsport.com, Mercedes had failed the crash test for the new Formula 1 season, but Mercedes told GPBlog that this is false: "We completed homologation several weeks ago."  They did pass the test and have already received approval from the FIA ​​and Formula One. In addition, a side crash test would no longer be an obligation under the rules, as the relevant parts are standard. Mercedes is therefore ready to present the new Mercedes W13 on February 18.