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In the aftermath of Lewis Hamilton’s collision with Max Verstappen, a lot of disparaging things were said about Lewis and Mercedes. Toto Wolff responds.
Not only did Red Bull boss Christian Horner imply that Lewis wanted to take Max Verstappen out on purpose, but Jos and Max Verstappen also criticized Lewis and Mercedes for celebrating their victory, while Max was still being checked out at the hospital.
Horner was later blasted by Lord Peter Hain for speaking in a way that ultimately incited numerous racist attacks aimed at Lewis Hamilton.
Now Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff gives his response to the whole controversy.
”I think you can understand that from a competitors’ point of view, the situation was upsetting,” the Austrian told Autosport.
“Nevertheless, the language that was used, and making it so personal, was a level that we have not seen in this sport before.
Wolff also responed to comments from Max’s father Jos, who had a lot to say about the incident.
”I understand the bias on the crash itself and the emotions of a father, and I would probably be the same, but I would use different language.”
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The Austrian went on to comment on the criticism that Mercedes shouldn’t have celebrated while Max was still in the hospital.
“Of course emotions boil up here. I think if we had been on the other side, we would have looked at it in a similar way. But what we would not have done is come out so quickly with personal allegations.”
Wolff explains the team knew at that point that Max was not hurt and was “doing relatively well”.
“That is why our reaction was adapted to that. But of course we accept that everyone has a different opinion – a different perspective that is communicated in your own way.”
The Dutch media has reported that Hamilton had spoken to Max Verstappen since the accident happened, however, Wolff says there will be no further talks about this with Red Bull.
”I think once the emotions are down, we will try to restore our professional relationship for the sake of Formula 1.
“But beyond that, there were no discussions, and don’t need to be,” concluded Mercedes’ team boss.
