F1 News
Wolff has a 2021 deja vu moment after Verstappen's battle with Norris
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff sees the similarities between the current F1 title fight and the one he was involved in 2021. However, the Austrian sees "less hostility" between the two drivers than it was during Lewis Hamilton's battle against the Dutchman.
Wolff sees less animosity between the '24 rivals
Wolff found the incidents similar to the ones that happened back in the 2021 season. "It's deja vu for me. Only in this case it's not about us, it's about Lando Norris. Although the animosity between Norris and Verstappen is not as great as between Lewis Hamilton and Verstappen or Red Bull in 2021," he told OE24.
Wolff believes the penalties received by Verstappen were 'terrible', but understands why they were given. Now, there is precedent in the competition to prevent "unfair racing" in the future. However, he underlined at the end of the day, it is good for the F1 show. "We all benefit from it, including me as a co-owner of a team. If the show is good, then business is also good," he acknowledged.
For now, the Austrian cannot imagine Verstappen losing the 2024 title, but believes he has to have a secure lead already entering the Abu Dhabi GP. "Normally that won't happen. If he keeps his cool on the track, it will be over. Of course, it remains a stress factor when it comes to the last race. That is why Max should come to Abu Dhabi with at least a 26-point lead," said the Mercedes team principal.
This article was written in collaboration with Nicole Mulder
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