P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff slapping a drunk Kimi Raikkonen? It happened, Wolff himself explained.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff recounted a surprising incident when he found himself punching Kimi Raikkonen following an insult towards George Russell at the 2018 FIA Prize-Giving Gala in St. Petersburg. Raikkonen, having placed third in the drivers’ standings that season, was obliged, under FIA rules, to be present at the event. However, he was visibly intoxicated when he went on stage to receive his trophy with Vettel. Backstage, Raikkonen had disparaged Russell, the F2 champion that year, prompting Wolff, in defense of his protégé, to take action. According to Wolff’s recollection, he approached Russell about sharing the incident, which Russell brushed off, saying he wasn’t affected. Wolff reflected on his upbringing and the need to stand up for oneself, citing the necessity of defending his team. He emphasized his protective instincts, indicating his readiness to support his family and team, just as he relies on their backing.
