Toto Wolff spreads fears of a tough 2021 season following a trying day in Bahrain for the Brackley-based Formula One Team. Day one of the team’s testing programme was riddled with issues as both cars experienced difficulties. Firstly, Valtteri Bottas was struck down with gearbox problems shortly into the morning session – managing to complete a measly six laps. Secondly, Lewis Hamilton struggled to find pace throughout the afternoon session.
Written by Aiden Hover & Bruna Brito
Mercedes 2021 Team – Team Principal Toto Wolff, and the drivers, Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas
In regards to the morning turmoil, the Mercedes team principal had this to say in the lunchtime break, “It wasn’t a good start because we had a gearbox issue that came out of nowhere and that we haven’t been ready to identify and understand.”
When asked to comment on the team’s recovery plan, Toto said, “So, I hope, if we are able to have a smoother ride from here onwards then I think we can recover. If we have more stumbling blocks then with three days there is not a lot you can do.”
The Austrian-native was clear in declaring that the team is in the middle of the development for next season’s car. “I doubt we will be there quickly. In that respect, and with the tyres going a notch harder, I don’t think we will [be] near the lap times that we have seen this year. At least not in the first half of the year.”
There are also strong rumors around the paddock about a possible return for Nico Hülkenberg, as reserve driver: “The question is not when the decision will be made, but when it will be announced.”
To read more about Mercedes’ possible new signing, click here.
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