Toto Wolff rules out Mercedes ‘poetic justice’ in Abu Dhabi

Toto Wolff has ruled out that “poetic justice” should Mercedes Winning at this year’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Silver Arrows won eighth straight double last season Max Verstappen controversially passed Lewis Hamilton On the final lap of the season, but only after a controversial safety car period.

While the Dutchman is on track for a second F1 world title after winning 11 races this year, it is the first time since 2011 that Hamilton and Mercedes have not won at this point in a season.

The team was initially plagued by early dolphin problems that have now given way to mechanical bounce when the car is run at too low a ride height. Drag efficiency is also a factor where the W13 struggles.

While the positive signs from Zandvoort and Budapest offset the pain at low-pressure circuits like Belgium and Italy, Wolff said: “It would be fantastic if we could win the race without any starting penalties.

“If you had asked Spa, I would have said no way [to win this season]. Then Zandvoort, we almost won that one, but Monza didn’t do well.

“so that [winning just one race] must be the target. We don’t want to end a season without a game win.

“Even if 2023 sets sail, it’s a good thing for all of us during a tough season.”

Wolff – nothing brings the championship back

Abu Dhabi’s misery was revisited at the Italian Grand Prix as the race that ended behind the safety car had another dubious ending.

This time, however, as both Wolff and Lewis Hamilton have pointed out, the FIA ​​has at least complied with the rules that should be implemented in Abu Dhabi.

But when asked if this year’s first win at Yas Marina would be cathartic given last year’s events, Wolff replied: “Poetic justice…I don’t think there’s anything next year. can bring us back to the championship, so wherever [for the win]. “