“He likes to create a little bit of controversy and mess” – Mercedes boss Toto Wolff is not pleased with Bernie Ecclestone’s recent comments on Lewis Hamilton.
Bernie Ecclestone might not be an official part of Formula 1 anymore, but he has still managed to stay in the headlines. This time, it was for questioning the reigning champion Lewis Hamilton’s hunger and drive to win in the sport.
Interview with Bernie Ecclestone ahead of the #BritishGP: “I have spoken to lots of people about this and perhaps Lewis is not quite the fighter that he was. There are lots of occasions this year where he could have done better and he hasn’t.”https://t.co/bhRJftgDTL
— Philip Duncan (@PhilDuncanF1) July 15, 2021
Safe to say, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff is not impressed with his comments, and has chosen to respond sarcastically to it. For those unaware, Lewis Hamilton has signed a two-year contract extension with Mercedes, until 2023.
“Bernie is always good for banter and headlines. He likes to create a little bit of controversy and mess. I think it is good for the sport, good for him. I think it is important that Bernie, the one who created all of this, is still having a strong opinion.”
Toto Wolff on Mercedes’ decline
Mercedes have slipped to P2 in the standings, with Red Bull picking up steam in the last few races. Asked if the ongoing British GP is season-defining for the team, the Austrian was defiant.
“No, it is not just one race, this is motor racing. If you start to say we have a gap and we won’t be able to catch up then we shouldn’t be here at all.
“It is a test for the team, we had seven years that were fantastic and we definitely are not ready to give the baton to these guys [Red Bull]. We will see where the season goes and also, the next.”
