Mercedes have faced their worst season since the introduction of the hybrid-era, with the Silver Arrows languishing down in 3rd in the Constructors’ Championship.
Sir Lewis Hamilton and George Russell have both struggled to tame the W13, ahead of a Grand Prix which Mercedes have dominated at in the last decade.
The British GP has been conquered by Mercedes eight times since 2013, with Hamilton claiming seven of those victories.
However, should Hamilton not win at Silverstone this weekend, then it would be his longest-ever run of races without claiming victory.
The seven-time World Champion has gone 10 races without victory, matching his current record.
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Both Russell and Hamilton have only managed a best finish of 3rd this season, however, that could all be set to change at their home race this weekend.
Mercedes are feeling “cautiously optimistic” ahead of Silverstone, where the German team are set to introduce a number of upgrades.
The recent Canadian GP was Mercedes’ best performance of the season so far, they’ll be looking to build on that at Silverstone.
Whilst victory seems unlikely, Mercedes’ James Allison thinks this weekend could be their best of the season so far.
“Everyone in our factory doesn’t dare say it but we are cautiously optimistic of having a more competitive weekend than some of those we’ve had of late,” Allison, Mercedes chief technical officer, told Sky F1.
“I think some characteristics of this circuit will suit this car but we don’t have a car capable of winning from the front yet.
“But I think as long as we can get the car tamed through Maggots, Becketts and around the faster of the corners than I think we have a decent chance of a competitive showing this weekend.
“And maybe if the Red Bulls stumble who knows, but I am hopeful, hopeful of a better weekend,” he added, suggesting that Mercedes might be able to beat Ferrari on merit.
After becoming so used to winning since the hybrid-era began, this year will have come as a shock to all involved at Mercedes.
The Silver Arrows have suffered more than anybody else from the porpoising issue, which has seen both drivers bounce aggressively inside their cockpit resulting in a lack of vision.
The recent FIA technical directive regarding the issue, has seen the regulation rules changed for this weekend onwards, with the FIA’s doctors demanding action due to the potential risk of injury to drivers.
Hamilton suffered from horrific back pain at the Azerbaijan GP, where he was seen struggling to climb out of his W13 post-race.
Mercedes will be hoping that the new rules benefit them, as they look to bridge the gap to both Ferrari and Red Bull Racing.
The only thing currently in Mercedes’ favour, is that they appear to have the most reliable car on the grid.
Should they get back to winning ways before the summer break, then their impressive reliability could drag them back into the championship fight.
Until then, a podium finish is all that they can hope for.
A win this weekend isn’t completely off the cards though, if their rivals slip-up.
Should they miraculously win at Silverstone, then Allison has admitted he would shed a tear or two.
“Absolutely, well I’d cry,” he said. “It would be a fantastic thing.
“I’ve just got my fingers crossed that we’ll have a credible showing with a car that’s on the mend.”