P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes boss Wolff ready to give Verstappen F1 title boost
Mercedes F1 team principal Toto Wolff clarified that his drivers will not assist McLaren drivers in their championship battle. George Russell, starting fourth at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, is chasing the three championship leaders, including McLaren’s Lando Norris and Max Verstappen. Norris currently holds a 12-point lead over Verstappen, with McLaren’s Oscar Piastri trailing further. Despite McLaren using Mercedes power units, Wolff stated they won’t interfere in the championship contest. As Mercedes eyes a more active role in upcoming seasons, the team plans to capitalize on the 2026 regulation changes. Additionally, Mercedes power units will be supplied to Alpine in 2026, expanding their engine manufacturer reach. Mercedes aims to secure more constructors’ championships in the future, both as a constructor and an engine supplier.
