Mercedes F1 fans feel ‘something is missing’ after seeing ‘weird’ 2025 W16 car for the first time

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Mercedes have unveiled their 2025 machine ahead of pre-season testing in Bahrain this week.

The Brackley-based squad will hope the W16 will bring consistent results after three years of headaches with their cars in the ground effect era.

Mercedes took a step forward in 2024 as they enjoyed their most competitive season with four wins. However, they could only manage fourth in the constructors’ championship behind McLaren, Ferrari and Red Bull.

James Allison says Mercedes are focusing on improving the W15’s ‘slight reluctance’ to turn in slow corners, as well as the imbalance in tyre temperatures ahead of pre-season testing.

Drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli give the Silver Arrows an exciting line-up in 2025. The pair will be searching for regular podiums and race wins with the W16.

But Mercedes fans cannot help but feel ‘something is missing’ with their 2025 challenger – and it will take some time to get used to.

Mercedes fans feel W16 does not ‘feel the same’ without the number 44 on the car

Mercedes are coping with the departure of Lewis Hamilton after he decided to join Ferrari. The 2025 season will be the first time the seven-time champion is not in their car since 2012.

While Hamilton has moved on to his next adventure, it seems Mercedes fans are finding it more difficult to accept. Many took to the comments of the team’s Instagram account as they noticed the W16 does not feature the Brit’s iconic number 44 anymore.

One fan said: “It’s gonna be weird not seeing the 44 on the Mercedes,” while another was left feeling that: “Something is missing #44… Good luck @mercedesamgf1.”

One user asked the question: “This a cyber truck or a tractor? Don’t feel the same without the 44,” while another said that they: “Already miss 44.”

Another fan was left wondering: “Where’s the 44 version,” while one echoed the same thoughts: “Bro I was looking for the number 44.”

Zak Brown sees one ‘inevitability’ for Kimi Antonelli in rookie Mercedes season

With Hamilton out of the team, Russell will step up as team leader at Mercedes and is their best chance to challenge for the drivers’ title.

The Brit beat Hamilton 18-6 in the qualifying battle last season in a strong year for the 27-year-old. But Russell admits he would like Hamilton’s ‘mega strong’ race pace to transplant into his own driving.

Russell will look to continue that momentum into 2025 and help Mercedes climb up the field. But rookie teammate Antonelli could potentially hold the Silver Arrows back with his inexperience.

The Italian is incredibly talented with multiple junior titles and he has the backing of the team and Toto Wolff to replace Hamilton.

But Zak Brown thinks ‘rookie weekends’ are inevitable for Antonelli as he is only 18 years old and will make his debut with a top-four team.