P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes and Ferrari head into the final race of the season with just four points separating them for second in the Constructors’ Championship.
Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff is confident that the Abu Dhabi finale will go smoothly with a competent race director, as they aim to hold off Ferrari for second place in the Constructors’ Championship. The gap between Mercedes and Ferrari has narrowed to just four points heading into the final race, with Mercedes on 392 points and Ferrari on 388. This race is also Mercedes’ final opportunity to secure a win in 2023 and avoid a winless season for the first time since 2011. Wolff referred to the controversial 2021 title-deciding finale when discussing his expectations, where the race director’s actions came under scrutiny. Wolff expressed satisfaction with having the chance to finish in second place, but emphasized that the result doesn’t greatly impact his mood. The hectic schedule means teams will swiftly depart for Abu Dhabi after the Las Vegas race, where the season will conclude. Wolff was asked about the need for better scheduling in Formula 1, to which he jokingly responded that they are currently operating on autopilot and simply need to get the job done.
