Wolff: Mercedes in a ‘better place’ since Silverstone

Mercedes is now in a “better place” following the upgrades it introduced at the British Grand Prix, believes team boss Toto Wolff.

The Brackley-based outfit has been embroiled in an intense title fight with Red Bull this year, as it looks to extend its 100% record of winning every championship in the V6 hybrid era.

Having witnessed Red Bull win five races on the bounce, Mercedes brought upgrades to Silverstone in a bid to halt its rivals winning streak.

It proved a much-needed boost in performance as Mercedes claimed victory, albeit after a controversial first-lap collision between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen.

Hamilton’s second place in Hungary, coupled with Red Bull’s struggles, meant Mercedes went into the summer break reclaiming the lead in both championships. But as the season resumes at this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix, Wolff is braced for the battle to go down to the wire.

“We head to Spa-Francorchamps in a good position. We lead both Championships and the W12 feels in a better place, after the upgrades introduced at Silverstone and an encouraging showing in Hungary,” Wolff said.

“But we know there is a long road ahead and so much can still happen in this season of ups and downs.”

The four-week hiatus has allowed teams a brief period to recharge ahead of a packed second half of the year that includes three triple-headers.

Wolff admits the battle with Red Bull has made 2021 one of the most “intense” seasons he’s endured in F1, expecting it to reignite once the cars head out on track in first practice at Spa.

“This has definitely been one of the most intense F1 seasons that I can remember, so far,” Wolff said.

“The battle is far from over and after a few weeks away from the track, we’re all really excited to get back to work.

“The shutdown is such an important time for the entire team. The chance to relax and recharge is invaluable, especially with such a busy second half of the season coming up, and the fight we have ahead of us.

“We’re all racers at heart though, so while we enjoyed the well-deserved time off, we’re also eager to get back to doing what we love: racing!”