F1 LIVE | Wolff warns against writing off Verstappen, as Elkann wants Hamilton and Leclerc silent

Toto Wolff was full of praise for Max Verstappen after the Dutchman stormed from the pit lane to the podium at Interlagos.

The Mercedes boss said the performance underlined why Verstappen remains a title threat, despite recent setbacks. “Never discount Max. That’s the reason why he’s a four-time world champion,” Wolff said, noting Red Bull’s decision to change the car's configuration and introduce a fresh engine had made a major difference.

Wolff compared Verstappen’s run to his standout wet-weather drive in Brazil a few years ago but argued this effort in dry conditions was “even more impressive.” Looking ahead, he hopes the championship fight between Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri, and Verstappen goes to the final round. “It’s very good, letting them race,” Wolff added. “The gap that Lando has is solid, but a DNF could swing it the other way. You’d want a finale in Abu Dhabi.”

Ferrari president John Elkann delivered a stern message following the team’s disastrous double retirement in Brazil, urging his drivers to “focus on driving and talk less.”

Speaking at a Stellantis event in Italy, Elkann expressed deep disappointment with the Interlagos result, noting that while mechanics and engineers had shown progress, particularly in pit stops and car development, judging ultimately that the overall performance “isn’t up to standard.”

Elkann stressed the importance of unity within the team and called on Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton to prioritise Ferrari’s collective goals. “We still have important races ahead,” he said. “Securing second place in the Constructors’ isn’t impossible. What matters in F1 is working cohesively… we need drivers who think not of themselves, but of Ferrari.”

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