Mercedes energized by 'brilliant buzz' ahead of Turkey

©Mercedes

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Toto Wolff says Mercedes heads to Turkey animated by "a brilliant buzz" in the wake of Lewis Hamilton's win in Sochi, with its drivers all "fired up" for next weekend's battle.

Hamilton's win in the action-packed Russian Grand Prix last time out propelled the Briton back to the top of the Drivers' standings, while Mercedes increased its lead over Red Bull in the Constructors' championship to 33 points.

But with seven rounds to go in the 2021 campaign and just two points separating Hamilton and arch-rival Max Verstappen, it's all to play for between the two protagonists, with more drama likely in store for the pair.

But Mercedes' crews and the team's drivers will kick off their weekend at Istanbul Park with a spring in their step.

©Mercedes

"There's been a brilliant buzz in the team over the last week or so," said Wolff in the Brackley squad's race weekend preview.

"Being back on the top step of the podium was an incredible feeling for all of us, and particularly after such a dramatic race weekend.

"It was obviously made even more special by being Lewis' 100th race win in Formula One.

"In the moment, milestones like this are exceptional, but I think it will take time for us to all realise just how remarkable this period of time is, and how privileged we all are to be part of this journey with him."

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The tight performance level between Mercedes and Red Bull coupled with rock solid reliability implies a straightforward battle between the two opponents and their drivers, although Wolff knows all to well how unforeseen events can turn a race on its side as has been the case on several occasions this season.

"The final moments of the last race in Russia proved that anything can happen in F1 and fortunes can change in the blink of an eye," added the Austrian.

"This season is keeping all of us on our toes and that's something we're enjoying immensely, but it also means we have to be aggressive with our approach to the season, in order to maximise the points available.

"That's our focus for Turkey and beyond.

"I know Lewis, Valtteri and the entire team are fired up for the battle that lies ahead, and we look set for another exciting race this weekend at Istanbul Park, where there are still many unknowns for us because of the track surface and weather conditions in 2020.

"It's an exciting track layout and a good one for racing, so I think we'll be in for another spectacular twist in this brilliant F1 season."

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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.