P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has admitted the team’s “mediocre” Abu Dhabi GP epitomised the struggles it endured during F1’s recent ground effect era.
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff acknowledged the team’s disappointing performance at the “mediocre” Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, reflecting the struggles faced during the recent ground effect era of Formula 1.
Despite securing second place in the Constructors’ Championship behind McLaren, Mercedes faced a lackluster race at Yas Marina Circuit, with George Russell failing to challenge Lando Norris for the title, finishing in fifth.
Wolff agreed with Russell’s assessment of their final competitive race with the W16 as “dreadful,” recognizing that the result will cast a shadow over the team during the upcoming winter break.
The Mercedes team, known for its dominance in recent years, now looks forward to welcoming regulation changes in 2022 and transitioning away from the challenging ground effect era.
While acknowledging the team’s occasional high points, Wolff emphasized the struggles faced by Mercedes against Red Bull and McLaren as they navigated the evolving landscape of Formula 1.
Looking ahead, Wolff expressed relief that the ground effect era is coming to an end, paving the way for a new chapter in the sport.
