---
title: "Mercedes to only make ‘tiny tweaks’ on W12 for rest of 2021"
canonical: "https://readmotorsport.com/2021/05/21/mercedes-to-only-make-tiny-tweaks-on-w12-for-rest-of-2021/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Hamilton Lyndon-Griffiths"
section: "F1 News"
published: "2021-05-21T13:19:10Z"
modified: "2021-05-21T13:19:13Z"
---

# Mercedes to only make ‘tiny tweaks’ on W12 for rest of 2021

Mercedes has revealed it will only upgrade “tiny tweaks” on its Formula 1 car for the remainder of the year with it now “flat out” preparing for next year’s regulations changes.

The Brackley-based outfit is leading both championships after the first four races but has faced a stern challenge from Red Bull in what is expected to be a season-long duel.

Although it is aware of the threat Red Bull poses, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has signalled the team’s intent to switch its attention to the new rules rather than continue development of its 2021 challenger.

Speaking on Thursday at the Monaco Grand Prix, Wolff told Sky Sports F1: “We are obviously churning along and trying to bring tweaks to the car and trying to understand the car and the tyres.

“But we are flat out in 2022.

“There will be tiny tweaks \[to the W12\] that will be coming but I think it’s more understanding the concept of this year’s car, it’s where we are looking for lap-time gain.”

The 2022 rule changes are set to be the biggest overhaul of the technical regulations in F1’s history, with the return of ground effect, simpler front wings and 18-inch tyres.

Teams are facing a dilemma of trying to balance their focus on the rest of this season whilst also ensuring they don’t get left behind in 2022.

Wolff acknowledged the risk of halting development on the W12, but believes there is more performance to come from its current package.

“We are confident that we can fight for it,” Wolff added.

“This championship is going to go very long, and we believe that there is lap time left in our car, in our power unit and in understanding the set-up rather than adding a tenth or two in downforce.

“Next year’s rules are going to be there for many years and if you start with a disadvantage that’s going to obviously bite you not only next year but in the years to come.”