Toto Wolff and Mercedes endured yet another tricky weekend at the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
IndyCar and NASCAR icon turned F1 pundit Danica Patrick has suggested that Toto Wolff looks “defeated” as Mercedes continue to struggle against the likes of Red Bull, Ferrari and McLaren.
The Silver Arrows endured another difficult weekend in Las Vegas off the back of a miserable outing in Brazil. Lewis Hamilton was eliminated in Q2 in qualifying and then suffered a puncture after a racing incident with Oscar Piastri during the Grand Prix, while George Russell picked up a time penalty for a collision with Max Verstappen.
In the meantime, their main competitors in the Constructors’ Championship gained ground, as Carlos Sainz edged out Hamilton for P6 and Charles Leclerc stole P2 from Sergio Perez on the last lap of the race. Mercedes’ lead in the standings, which was four points ahead of the season finale, has shrunk as a result of that outcome.
Speaking with the Sky Sports F1 team about Mercedes’ performance, Patrick stated: “They’ve gotten so much better throughout the year, but nothing to show for it.” You could tell that Toto appeared defeated, irritated, and possibly exhausted. Christian Horner discussed the timing of this incident.
It’s been a demanding year, and everyone is tiring. They must be feeling particularly burdened by it now, especially on their bad days. particularly when they see signs of hope.”
Mercedes’ hopes of finishing the season with a win fell apart in Brazil, but things were looking up for the team after they unveiled their crucial new floor upgrade in time for the United States Grand Prix in Texas. Hamilton was able to push Verstappen all the way that afternoon before his regrettable disqualification.
Nonetheless, Mercedes will be somewhat confident going into their matchup with Ferrari in Abu Dhabi. The characteristics of the track should be ideal for the W14, and despite technical issues in both of their races in Las Vegas, Hamilton and Russell both displayed some impressive pace.
Following the race, Wolff discussed the incidents involving his two drivers with Sky Sports F1. When asked what he thought of Hamilton and Piastri’s fight, he replied, “Not his fault.” I regret to inform you that, once again, we had pace but got nowhere.”
Then, focusing on Russell, he remarked, “George, that was pretty much game over after the incident with Verstappen when he got a penalty. In addition, he moved quickly at the front; perhaps not as quickly as Max, but still.”
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