P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Toto Wolff has outlined a significant factor as to why Mercedes has currently shut the door on joining the Hypercar class of WEC.
Toto Wolff explained why Mercedes is not interested in participating in the Hypercar class of the World Endurance Championship (WEC) alongside their F1 competitors. The primary reason is the Balance of Power (BoP) system in WEC, which Mercedes finds unappealing despite their involvement in the LMGT3 class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The BoP rules aim to level the field in endurance racing within a specific class but do not equalize performance gaps. Mercedes is currently focused on its GT3 car and plans to introduce a new model in 2027, making it unfeasible to consider Hypercar competition. Wolff voiced his dislike for BoP and preference for a system with financial restrictions rather than performance adjustments, suggesting this approach might attract Mercedes to the Hypercar category in the future. The team principal emphasized the importance of focusing on building the fastest car within set financial limits rather than having officials regulate performance through BoP adjustments.
