Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff believes that the intense battle between drivers Kimi Antonelli and George Russell for the lead in the Canadian Grand Prix was “just acceptable”.
The Mercedes duo engaged in a thrilling tussle during the early stages of the 68-lap race in Montreal, as the pair went wheel-to-wheel and traded the lead several times.
Their personal battle only came to an end when Russell was forced to retire on Lap 30 due to a power unit problem, with Antonelli left clear to take his fourth Grand Prix win in succession.
“It was just acceptable. I think probably 10% less battling would have made us all happier but it’s okay,” said Wolff on the fight between his drivers.
The latest on-track battle came after Russell and Antonelli also fought for the win in Saturday’s Sprint, with Antonelli unhappy about a Turn 1 move that left him on the grass.
On Saturday, Wolff had stated that “I don’t want to hold him back” regarding Antonelli’s fighting spirit, but confirmed post-race on Sunday that the latest flashpoint would be discussed ahead of the next race in Monaco.
“I think first we need to calm things down,” said Wolff. “Also make sure George is in a good head space, or a better head space, and then discuss it with them. We always want to be transparent.”
Antonelli’s victory means he now holds a 43-point lead in the Drivers’ standings after just five Grands Prix weekends, with Wolff stating that Sunday’s result was bittersweet.
“Obviously a win is a win and that is great. Kimi deserves it, but bittersweet for the team,” added Wolff.
“Obviously you had George who was leading the race and we let him down with failure. That is always difficult to cope, we’d rather see them racing like we did for the whole race and then figuring out on track who deserves to win.”
