Wolff laments grid penalty handed to Vettel

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The US Grand Prix stewards' decision to hand a grid penalty to Sebastian Vettel for a red-flag violation plays right into the hands of Mercedes, but Toto Wolff wasn't happy with the call.

Vettel's challenge for the world title has gone from difficult to near-impossible after the Ferrari driver was hit a three-place demotion on Sunday's grid for failing to slow down sufficiently during a red flag period in Friday's FP1 session.

The German labeled the decision as "a lack of common sense" given the stakes, and Wolff agreed, insisting he would rather Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton prevail in the championship after a good fight and Vettel "putting on a good show".

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"It’s difficult because there was a decision that I thought was a bit harsh against Esteban last weekend, and it sets a precedent," said Wolff, alluding to a similar incident involving Ocon in Japan.

"For the championship, obviously it’s not good if Sebastian would get a penalty. We’d rather have him there and put on a great show."

Formula 1's penalty system has often been criticized by team managers and drivers alike, and Wolff believes the time for a rethink has perhaps come.

"I think we need to talk about it because safety of the marshals and the car that’s in the barrier is super important," he said

"But we need to look at the regulations. We want to get rid of the penalties, so merging the two is not a trivial thing."

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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.