Wolff confident Verstappen was not involved in Red Bull's 'pathetic' move

13:22, 17 Jun

byTobia Elia

Toto Wolff had plenty to say about Red Bull’s double protest against George Russell following the Canadian GP, criticizing the claims over the Briton’s actions under the Safety Car.

Red Bull accused George Russell of unsporting and unpredictable behavior behind the safety car towards the end of the race in Montreal. The incident occurred with Verstappen behind him, with the Dutchman complaining about his rival’s sudden braking and failure to maintain the mandatory ten-car gap behind the Safety Car.

However, after hearing both drivers, the stewards dismissed the complaint and confirmed Russell's victory, the first for Mercedes this season.

This was the second time in a short period that Red Bull had filed a complaint against Russell. It occurred previously in Miami, where Russell finished third ahead of Verstappen. At that time, Red Bull accused him of not slowing down sufficiently under yellow flags, but that complaint was also rejected.

Wolff takes aim at Red Bull

Commenting on the double protest during the premiere of the F1 movie, set to be released on June 27, the Mercedes team principal didn’t hold back in addressing his rivals: "It took two hours before team Red Bull Racing filed the protest, so that was their own choice''.

''Honestly: it's so pathetic and embarrassing. They did the same in Miami. Now they filed two protests. One they withdrew because it was ridiculous."

"They come up with weird clauses, or what they call clauses. I think the FIA needs to look into this, because it was so far-fetched that it was rejected. You race, you win or you lose on the track. This was a rightful victory for us, just as they have achieved many in the past. And this? This is just embarrassing."

Wolff ultimately defended Verstappen, stating that he had nothing to do with the decision made by his team: "I know for a fact that Max would never do this. He's a racer. He would never opt for a protest over something so trivial."

Max Verstappen, George Russell in Canada

Max Verstappen and George Russell leaving the stewards' office in Canada

Russell agrees with Wolff

Ultimately, Russell was also surprised by the protest: "I think even Max didn't know there was a protest going on. No idea what was happening or what they were thinking''.

''I'm glad it ultimately led to nothing. It was just a waste of time for everyone. Two team members missed their flight because of all this."

"But it's over now, we're looking forward. I feel good within the team, I'm performing strongly. Who knows what else will happen; the margins are now incredibly small," concludes the four-time race winner.