Toto Wolff: "Nothing is clear cut"

  • Published on 25 Aug 2016 07:22
  • comments 0
  • By: Fergal Walsh

Team Principal of Mercedes Toto Wolff doesn't expect Mercedes' dominance in Formula One to continue much longer but is determined to see Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg finish the season as the main title challengers.

The Austrian has overseen two and a half years of intense rivalry between Hamilton and Rosberg but expects that soon enough they will have other problems to worry about.

“We return from the summer break with fresh energy for the next phase of the season - and we will need all of that energy, as time and again we're reminded that nothing is clear cut,” Wolff said. “We were expecting Hungary to be tough, with Hockenheim playing more to our strengths. That wasn't the case. "

“It's an unusual situation to be winning for so long, so you can't expect it to last - especially against opposition with such passion and resource as those around us.” 

Fans are hoping that the new regulations will see other teams challenge Mercedes in 2017. The last big aerodynamic overhaul was for the 2009 season which saw Honda Racing (re-named Brawn GP for 2009) jump from ninth in the constructers standings in 2008 to first in 2009, and Red Bull from seventh to second.

While no-one is expecting such big jumps this time around, Ferrari and Red Bull are the main teams who possess the biggest opportunity to take back the constructers title next season.

Wolff also spoke about Hamilton and Rosberg's title chase, saying he is looking forward to seeing how it unfolds.

“We will continue to fight hard. For the drivers, it's the same story,” he said. “There are more than 200 points to be won in their title battle and a lot of racing to be done yet. Lewis is on an impressive run, just like Nico had at the end of last season and into this one. The advantage constantly swings, so it will be exciting to see how their battle pans out.” 
 

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