F1 News
Wolff explains Hamilton penalty: "We are not looking at stockpiling good engines"
Mercedes opted to install a new internal combustion engine for Lewis Hamilton this weekend so he will start from P11 in the Turkish Grand Prix. The Mercedes boss Toto Wolff fears it will be a difficult challenge for Hamilton to fight through the field.
Tough task
Because Hamilton uses his fourth ICE of the season, he takes a ten-place grid penalty. The Brit recorded the fastest time in qualifying but still starts from the midfield. Wolff points to data gathered in Friday's long runs as to why it might be a challenge for the seven-time World Champion to move to the front.
"I hope [Hamilton can advance quickly], but yesterday in the long run we were behind a Haas and Williams and it was difficult to come close. Strategy is the one that's going to help tomorrow. Progress will be a tough one [for Lewis]," Wolff explained to Sky Sports after qualifying who goes on to explain the penalty.
"We are not looking at stockpiling good engines, that would be silly when taking a penalty. We have seen little gremlins over the season so we'll rather have a new engine that can possibly go longer. I would very much hope not, it's seven tough races, let's see how the points pan out but four engines sounds sufficient," he added.
Bottas on pole
The Istanbul Park Circuit is a stronghold for Mercedes. Their car seems to be stronger than Red Bull and Valtteri Bottas starts from pole position.
"You need to look at positives. The car is very quick and Valtteri can start from pol. On the other hand, it could've been a front-row lockout and it wasn't. Valtteri wants to win the race and it's his best chance. And it's helping Lewis. The Red Bull hasn't been competitive this weekend," Wolff concluded.