P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Toto Wolff has rejected the suggestion that he is a tough negotiator, after comments from Nico Rosberg cast his deal-making strategies in a certain light.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has refuted claims that he is a challenging negotiator, rejecting former driver Nico Rosberg’s recent assertions.
Wolff stressed his approach as “fair” at the negotiation table, often having discussions in his own kitchen in the past.
Despite reports of “horrible” tactics, Wolff stated he tries to empathize by putting himself in the other person’s shoes during deals.
Speculation around Mercedes’ driver lineup has intensified as the team nears confirming George Russell and Kimi Antonelli for the 2026 F1 season.
During the intense negotiations, Wolff also engaged with Max Verstappen over a potential move from Red Bull, creating a tense situation for Mercedes’ current drivers.
Wolff emphasized his balanced and empathetic negotiation style, striving to find fairness for both parties despite the pressures to optimize outcomes and navigate complexities.
