Wolff amused by 'whinging' of competitors after Bottas pitlane spin

Valtteri Bottas' nasty spin in the pitlane on Friday not only earned him criticism from the paddock but even a grid penalty from the FIA. The Finn saw his P2 qualification translated into a fifth place on the grid. Despite this, the driver was praised by his team boss Toto Wolff, who stated that the reactions of the other teams to the spin were exaggerated.

"It’s highly entertaining how quickly some sporting directors jump on the channel to Masi and come with Armageddon scenarios," Wolff argues in conversation with The Race. "It’s good that these channels are opened up so we can all have a laugh."

Justified, but severe

Asked for his views on Bottas' grid penalty, the Austrian said that while a punishment would be appropriate, in his opinion the driver was being treated very harshly. Wolff: "I understand the penalty, but I find it harsh."

The team boss continued: "Particularly against someone like Valtteri who is never putting a foot wrong… We should have a little bit more integrity like Valtteri has around the paddock including some of the ones that push the button very quickly and moan about everybody else and whinge."