F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Mercedes 'needs to put things right' at Silverstone - Wolff

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff is looking to provide both the team's drivers with an optimal opportunity to achieve a clean sweep at Silverstone next weekend.

Valtteri Bottas' win last weekend in Austria was saluted by the German outfit, but Lewis Hamilton clearly underperformed, although through no fault of his own insists Wolff.

"The British Grand Prix is one of the highlights of any Formula One season," says the Austrian.

"It's a combination of the history of the circuit, the knowledge and racing culture of the fans, unpredictable weather conditions and, of course, the unique feeling of racing just a few kilometres from our factories.

"From the team's perspective, we come to Silverstone with a feeling of unfinished business and needing to put things right, even though we took the win in Austria.

"In both Baku and Spielberg, we left points on the table that were there for the taking because of car problems that had nothing to do with our drivers.

"We are determined to make sure that doesn't happen in Silverstone."

Wolff acknowledged in Austria Hamilton's depressed demeanour following another loss of points against arch-rival Sebastian Vettel.

But while the Brit may have been down, and justifiably so, he was certainly not out and will head to Silverstone more resolute than ever.

"The determination for Lewis to fight back with a strong performance this weekend needs no more explanation," says Wolff.

"Things could have been a lot worse at the last two races - but his performance and pace deserved a lot better.

"He has handled the setbacks with the calmness and maturity we have come to expect from him.

"Lewis is doing the job in a pretty perfect way right now and if he keeps doing that, the results will follow."

GALLERY: F1 drivers' wives and girlfriends

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

 

 

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.

Recent Posts

Abbi pulling her weight in F1 Academy

Alpine protégé Abbi Pulling extended her lead in the F1 Academy championship with back-to-back wins…

43 mins ago

Wolff dismisses Mintzlaff criticism: ‘No relevance for me’

Toto Wolff has dismissed Red Bull chief Oliver Mintzlaff’s criticism of the Mercedes team principal’s…

2 hours ago

Race ban looms for Magnussen after penalty-filled Miami weekend

Kevin Magnussen’s defensive tactics and a clash with a mid-field rival in the Miami Grand…

3 hours ago

Verstappen: Perez first corner lock-up ‘could have ended in disaster’

Max Verstappen says he was very much aware of Sergio Perez’s looming presence behind him…

4 hours ago

Norris after Miami gold: ‘I knew my time was coming’

Lando Norris says he never doubted he would one day become a bona fide Grand…

17 hours ago

Sainz one Safety Car pitstop away from winning Miami GP

The Miami Grand Prix unfolded with a twist of fate for Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz, who…

19 hours ago