Wolff knows the challenge of staying ahead: "It's damn hard"

Toto Wolff and Mercedes have dominated Formula 1 for almost a decade now. They've managed to secure every World Championship trophy since the 2014 season, and in 2021 they will be pushing for an eighth consecutive double World Championship. 

Damn Hard

Looking from the outside, it seems as if Mercedes have an easy ride. Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton are both favourites again for the World Championship. A title that would push Hamilton into a class of his own. 

But Toto Wolff explains how difficult it is to stay ahead of rivals such as Red Bull Racing. 

"Every year we reset our focus and define the right objectives. That may sound simple but it's damn hard and is probably why there are no sports teams out there with seven consecutive titles. So many things can happen and it's very natural to get used to success, and therefore not fight as hard for it," Wolff said in the Mercedes press release when the W12 was launched on Tuesday morning. 

"But this team has not shown any of that. I see the same fire, hunger and passion now as I did the first time I walked through the doors in 2013. Every season presents a new challenge and therefore, a new goal for us to achieve."

New regulations

2021 was supposed to be the year in which the rule and regulation book was rewritten. The coronavirus pandemic forced a delay in this but F1 still welcomes some alterations, particularly around the floor of the car for downforce levels. 

Mercedes will also be without DAS for the 2021 season. "2021 brings changes to the regulations, which could impact our competitiveness, plus the cost cap and working on the major rule changes of 2022. These challenges excite us," Wolff added.