The 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix remains one of Formula 1’s most hotly debated races, cementing Max Verstappen’s first title in a last-lap stunner and denying Lewis Hamilton his record-breaking eighth. For Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff, the memory is vivid—not because of sadness, but because of anger over a race direction decision he feels cost Hamilton a historic championship.
Reflecting on the incident, Wolff shared his thoughts on former race director Michael Masi’s handling of the final laps, particularly the decision to let only specific lapped cars unlap themselves, setting up a last-lap sprint that saw Verstappen pass Hamilton for the win.
“I felt angry,” Wolff recalled. “Not depressed or sad, just angry that an individual was able to take away an eighth championship from the best driver in the world by a bad decision.”
Wolff’s sentiments reflect the frustration of many within the Mercedes camp, who believed Hamilton was moments away from a historic achievement, only to have it swept away by a decision that ultimately cost Masi his role. For Wolff, the sense of injustice still lingers. Yet he places the loss in perspective: “There are dictators around the world and politicians that cause so much pain. Losing the eighth title is not comparable.”
Hamilton’s reaction was a powerful moment in the F1 community, mixing visible disappointment with the resilience that defines his career. Wolff added that, despite the shock, Hamilton managed to process his emotions swiftly and was back to a good mental space within days.
“It still goes with us because of the unfairness that happened on this particular day,” Wolff admitted. Yet, he highlights Hamilton’s strength, acknowledging that while the incident may still sting, it’s a chapter they’ve worked to close.
Though Hamilton’s near miss at history remains a sore spot for the driver, his fans, and Mercedes, Wolff’s reflections reveal a team focused on moving forward while always remembering the importance of fairness and resilience in racing.
