Mercedes fortifies T-wing but concerns remain

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Mercedes has braced-up its T-wing aerodynamic device following its failure yesterday morning in FP3 and a subsequent demand by the FIA.

The appendage's breakage was the second this season for Mercedes, with the thin wing also falling off Valtteri Bottas' car in China.

"We fixed the problem," Wolff told reporters in Bahrain after qualifying.

"It has been strengthened. You wouldn't be able to take that thing off with a baseball bat now, so it should be OK."

Concerns remain however, and the FIA has apparently scheduled a meeting of the sport's technical working group for next Friday, with the future of the T-wings and engine cover 'shark fins' on the agenda.

Horner wants 'dangerous' T-wings banned after practice mishap

Red Bull's Christian Horner has been leading the call for the governing body to ban both the T-wing and the ubiquitous dorsal fin. But Wolff suggests that Horner's grievances go beyond aesthetic or safety considerations.

"It's clear Christian needs to do that. You're trying to take parts off from other cars that function.

"It's perfectly understandable - plus, it ruined their floor."

GALLERY: All the pictures from Saturday in Bahrain

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.