Toto Wolff obviously drew a very positive conclusion from the Las Vegas Grand Prix, at the end of which Mercedes F1 signed the double. The team principal gives a final look back at the very good performances of George Russell and Lewis Hamilton.
“We are looking forward to the penultimate race of the season in Qatar, after our first place in Las Vegas. The team did an excellent job during the three days in the United States” Wolff said.
“We were fast throughout the race and we executed well on Saturday night. George controlled the race from pole position, he drove superbly and he had pace to spare.”
“Lewis, meanwhile, made a strong comeback from 10th place, working his way through the field to second place to secure the team’s first two podium spots.”
“An outstanding result is exactly what we wanted at the end of the season, and it is well deserved given the hard work and determination everyone has shown over the second half of the year.”
On the other hand, Mercedes could be in more difficulty this weekend at Losail, with a much smoother and faster circuit, and high temperatures which are not the W15’s favorite playground.
“The Las Vegas and Qatar races couldn’t be more different. The Lusail International Circuit has many high-speed sections and few, if any, major braking zones.”
“Even if we go later in the calendar than last year, it will still be very hot. This contrasts with the cool conditions and many low-speed sections of Las Vegas. Regardless Either way, we are aiming for a good performance again this weekend.”
“The W15 seemed more at home on circuits with many high-speed corners, such as Silverstone or Spa. We certainly benefited from the cold night in Las Vegas, but the Qatar layout should be more favorable to the strengths of our car.”
“We know our competitors will be stronger than they were last weekend, but we will aim to put the car in a good window once again and fight at the front.”
