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F1: 'Fric' storm exits with a whimper

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Khatir Soltani
From GMM

As quickly as the 'Fric' storm swept into the paddock, it left with barely a whimper.

"It changed nothing," said Niki Lauda, chairman of the Mercedes team that supposedly would suffer most from the effective banning of the suspension technology.

"It just cost a lot of money," he told German television RTL.

Indeed, Nico Rosberg dominated the German grand prix without the sophisticated 'Fric' system that was present for the silver W05's eight other wins in 2014.

F1 Nico Rosberg Mercedes W05 Hockenheim
Nico Rosberg, Mercedes W05, Hockenheim. (Photo: WRi2)

"It was said that Mercedes has the most complex system - the best system - but the hierarchy has apparently not shifted at all," said commentator Marc Surer on German television Sky.

Even Mercedes' rivals agree.

"To be honest, it seemed to have changed nothing with us," said Red Bull team boss Christian Horner. "It had no effect. So now we have two kilos less ballast!"


Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
As a car enthusiast, he tests and compares vehicles from different categories through the eyes of the consumer, ensuring relevant and objective reviews.
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada