Wolff hopes to end the year strong: 'We still have an outside chance'

Toto Wolff does not expect Mercedes to perform as strongly in Abu Dhabi as they did at the Brazilian Grand Prix, where George Russell won both the sprint and the main race. The team boss does hope Mercedes can finish second in the championship.

Wolff was not present at Interlagos during Mercedes' most successful race weekend so far this season. However, the Austrian is present for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where the team can still clinch second place in the constructors' championship. The difference with Ferrari is just 19 points.

"Securing our first victory of the season is the result of so much hard work, dedication and determination from everyone involved. Our team never stopped believing and never stopped pushing. I couldn't be prouder of them, and it shows just how strong our values are", Wolff reflects on the weekend in Mercedes' press release.

Mercedes has 'an outside chance'

While Russell crossed the finish line victorious twice, Lewis Hamilton managed to finish second behind his teammate. As a result, the team picked up a lot of points against Ferrari. However, after the success in Brazil, Wolff remains realistic when it comes to expectations in Abu Dhabi. The circuit will probably not suit the W13 as well, but that does not mean the team is just giving up.

"We don't expect to be as competitive in Abu Dhabi due to the circuit's characteristics but given the surprises we've had this year with W13, we'll just have to wait and see. We still have an outside chance of P2 in the championship - and the points gap to Ferrari is the smallest it has been all year. Hopefully we'll keep this positive momentum going to end the year strong", says the Mercedes team boss.