Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff is to miss this weekend’s Brazil GP as the Austrian wants to focus on other topics by being in Europe.
With both the 2019 F1 titles – constructors’ and drivers’ – now secured, Mercedes boss Wolff will give this weekend’s Brazil GP a miss, as the Austrian states that he wants to focus on some other topics by being in Europe rather than the Interlagos circuit.
It is the first F1 grand prix since 2013 that Wolff will be missing. “Brazil will be the first race since 2013 that I won’t attend,” said Wolff. “With both championships secured, it gives me more time in Europe to focus on other open topics.
“It’s great to be able to do this and to know that the team will represent the three-pointed star in the best way possible both on and off the track. Last week we had the chance to celebrate the championships with everyone at Brixworth and Brackley.
“It is always a special moment and this year’s was particularly special as our sixth consecutive double sets a new benchmark in our sport. But despite this record-breaking achievement, I still feel a lot of hunger and desire for more achievements.
“There’s no sense of complacency, everybody is still determined to keep on improving. It’s an inspiring group of people that fully lives up to the Mercedes aspiration of being the best. We have two races to go in the 2019 season and we want to end this season on a high.
“Brazil brings back fond memories from last year when we were not only able to win the race but also secure the constructors’ championship at Interlagos. It’s a very short track which makes qualifying particularly challenging as the margins are very small.
“We have generally not had the fastest car on Saturdays since the summer break, but we were able to take pole in Austin and will try to fight for a front row start again at Sao Paulo.” Mercedes Technical Director James Allison will replace Wolff at the helm in Brazil.
He will be ably supported by other key figures traveling during the grand prix, including Team Manager Ron Meadows. Wolff missing a grand prix comes at an interesting time as his contract is up for renewal at the end of the 2020 F1 season.
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