F1 News

toto wolff preview grand prix singapore

Wolff expects tough Grand Prix: 'Singapore is a challenge for every team'

12 September 2023 at 12:20
Last update 12 September 2023 at 15:33
  • Toby McLuskie

After the summer break, Mercedes did not stand on the F1 podium. Still, team boss Toto Wolff was not dissatisfied with the last performance in Monza. Expectations are higher for next weekend's Singapore Grand Prix.

Looking back once more at the Italian Grand Prix - where Mercedes finished in places five and six - the Mercedes big man says: "We maximised the result in Monza with the package we had. That will be important across the rest of the season to secure second in the Constructors'. At a circuit that didn't necessarily suit the characteristics of our car, we were still competitive."

Singapore is tough for team and car

According to Wolff, it is 'encouraging' to see that the W14 is "performing well" on different types of circuits. The race at the Marina Bay Street Circuit is of a completely different order. "Singapore is a unique challenge for every team. The hot and humid conditions are tough on the drivers, team members and the cars. It's a bumpy track and there are some changes to the layout for this year, too. It should make the lap more flowing and slightly kinder on the tyres."

In any case, under the artificial lights of Singapore, a considerable challenge awaits. One that should suit Mercedes. "The battle with our nearest competitors is incredibly close. It's hard to predict just how the order will shake out each weekend. Nonetheless, we typically perform better on high downforce tracks, so we're hopeful of a competitive showing," Wolff concluded.