Jul.21 (GMM) Toto Wolff may have intensified the dispute over Formula 1’s new engine equalisation system by openly declaring Mercedes has the most powerful power unit on the grid.
The Mercedes boss made the claim after George Russell’s retirement at Spa, where another electrical problem left the Briton exposed before his first-lap collision with Lewis Hamilton.
“We have the most powerful power unit and a top car capable of winning,” he said. “Everyone is doing everything they can to minimise mistakes.
“But they simply happen because humans are at work here.”
The remark attracted attention because the FIA’s initial analysis identified Red Bull-Ford as having the strongest combustion engine.
That assessment denied Red Bull access to the ADUO mechanism, which allows weaker manufacturers additional power unit development opportunities. Red Bull has argued for weeks that Mercedes is actually producing more overall power.
When Asked about Wolff’s apparent admission, Laurent Mekies smiled: “I think Toto’s right,” the Red Bull boss said.
“And that’s why they had a significant advantage on the straights, something we’ve seen over several weekends.”
Wolff’s comments are not expected to alter the FIA’s existing calculation, which focused on the combustion engine rather than the full performance of the hybrid power unit.
However, they will add to the pressure on the governing body ahead of its next assessment cycle.
Mercedes has clearly emerged as the strongest-performing power unit manufacturer, although reliability and unpredictable energy deployment remain serious problems.
“That’s the story of our season,” said Wolff. “We’ve already lost a lot of points because of this. We should actually have a much bigger lead.”
Mercedes customer McLaren has also become increasingly frustrated with the complexity and inconsistency of the new power units.
Oscar Piastri was scathing after Spa. “I certainly wasn’t the only one complaining,” he said.
“I know that George has had a lot of problems with it this weekend and perhaps over the last few races as well. And when I talk to others, I hear similar stories.”
“If the grid is essentially determined before qualifying by computers that may or may not behave properly, then that is a pretty crap way of going racing.”
World champion Lando Norris offered a similar assessment.
“So much, so much, is beyond your control,” he said. “It’s a shame that in qualifying, so many factors dictate your own pace. And nothing depends on the driver.”
As for Russell, whose points deficit to teammate Kimi Antonelli is now 50 points, the Briton admitted repeated setbacks have left him emotionally “numb”.
French broadcaster RMC Sport even wondered whether Russell was now being “abandoned by Mercedes”.
Wolff said the team must reverse that mood. “You have to understand that the driver reacts very emotionally in such situations,” he said.
“On the other hand, as a Formula 1 driver, you belong to a very special elite. I consider it a great honour to drive a Mercedes.”
“That’s why I hope this feeling of numbness will disappear again. We will try to create optimism and a positive attitude again.”
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
There are motorsport events, and then there is the Indianapolis 500, the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing." Next year marks Grand Prix Tours' 42nd Indianapolis 500 tour and our decades of experience and local connections provide exclusive access that few fans ever enjoy, including police escorts on race day, a Dallara IndyCar Factory tour, Gasoline Alley and Legends Day, the Driver Introduction Ceremony, and a private dinner with former Indy driver Derek Daly. Combined with excellent hotel accommodations, seamless event planning, and Grand Prix Tours' signature service, this is far more than a race weekend; it's a once-in-a-lifetime motorsport experience. With tour spaces limited each year, we encourage you to reserve your place early for the 111th Indianapolis 500.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Formula 1 at its most iconic with an unforgettable trip to the 2027 Grand Prix de Monaco. Feel the excitement as the world’s best drivers race through the legendary streets of Monte Carlo, surrounded by superyachts, Mediterranean views, and the unmistakable glamour of Monaco. From incredible race viewing to carefully selected accommodations, Grand Prix Tours brings you closer to the action at one of the most prestigious and spectacular events in all of motorsport.
SHOW PACKAGES
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the ultimate test of speed, strategy, and endurance. Watch the world's top manufacturers battle for 24 nonstop hours in one of motorsport's most prestigious events. With Grand Prix Tours handling your accommodations, transfers, and ticket options, all that's left is to experience this unforgettable bucket-list race.
SHOW PACKAGES
Feel the roar of Formula 1 at its spiritual home. Silverstone is one of the fastest and most demanding circuits in the world, where brave overtakes, lightning-fast direction changes, and flat-out commitment separate the best from the rest. Combined with the electric atmosphere created by hundreds of thousands of passionate fans, the British Grand Prix delivers a race weekend unlike any other.
SHOW PACKAGES