Chief of Mercedes in Formula 1, Toto Wolff stated that both drivers are receiving equal treatment, despite a statement from Lewis Hamilton that could imply otherwise.
Hamilton finished in the top three in all three practice sessions at the Monaco Grand Prix, but qualified two positions behind his teammate George Russell.
The seven-time champion has only started ahead of his compatriot once in the first eight races and stated that he expects this trend to continue in the current season.
“I already know automatically that I will lose two tenths in qualifying,” said Hamilton, who finished seventh, to Sky Sports F1.
“I don’t expect to be ahead of George in qualifying, especially this season.”
When asked how he expects to continue trailing Russell in terms of pace on a quick lap for the rest of the season, Hamilton replied: “Let’s see.”
With the announcement that Hamilton will move to Ferrari in 2025 becoming public, his words were interpreted as suggesting that something was wrong on his side of the team.
This interpretation was amplified when it was revealed that Mercedes had brought a new front wing specification to Monte Carlo, which Russell had used on his W15 car throughout the weekend.
However, Wolff insisted that Mercedes has consistently provided its drivers with equal opportunities to succeed and that this has not changed despite Hamilton’s imminent departure.
Asked if he believed Hamilton’s comments indicated paranoia, Wolff said: “You know, aren’t all drivers a bit skeptical sometimes?
“I think as a team, we have shown, even in the most intense competitions between teammates, that we always strive to maintain a balanced and transparent approach.”
“There was a moment, beyond the incident in Abu Dhabi in 2016, where we tried to manage these situations.
“We haven’t done that since then, but I understand that, as a driver, you want the best for yourself and for the team.
“Sometimes, when things are not going your way, you may question things.
“As a team, we are 100% committed to providing both drivers with excellent cars, the best possible strategies, and support.”
Wolff also denied that the partnership with Hamilton was broken and remains determined to ensure that his final season with the team ends on a positive note.
“Well, we are striving to make the most of the relationship, aiming to maximize results in this, the final season,” he explained.
“And, you know, the relationship between drivers and teams can be tense at times, because everyone wants to perform at their best.”
