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Wolff makes Mercedes’ true ambitions crystal clear ahead of Australian GP

Credit: Racepictures

F1 News

16:01, 04 Mar

Updated: 17:15, 04 Mar

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byTobia Elia

Toto Wolff has set his sights on the Australian Grand Prix, where Mercedes is aiming to play a leading role.

“We identified encouraging signs, but also several areas that are not yet where they need to be”

- Toto Wolff

Wolff lifts the lid on Mercedes’ true target in Melbourne

Speaking ahead of the opening race weekend of the season, the Austrian said the W17 had shown encouraging signs during testing, while stressing that there are still areas to improve and that the Albert Park circuit will provide a clearer picture of Mercedes’ true level.

“Testing is behind us now. It offered glimpses, but—as always—far more questions than answers. We identified encouraging signs, but also several areas that are not yet where they need to be.

“That is the nature of this sport: every weakness is an opportunity waiting to be unlocked. The W17 has potential, but the stopwatch never lies. Melbourne will give us the first real indication of where we stand; that is both intriguing and humbling at the same time.”

Photo: Race Pictures

Wolff also underlined that it will take several races before the true pecking order of the season becomes clear, stressing the importance of energy management on a circuit with few heavy braking zones to recharge the batteries.

“It will take a few races before the competitive order settles. Albert Park is an energy‑lean circuit, so deployment and strategic discipline will play a meaningful role. The new regulations add another layer of complexity and will reshape the dynamics across the field as teams adapt.

“We are at the beginning of a new era for the sport —one full of opportunity and built from a position of strength. There's been lots of talk up to this point but that can now stop and we can go racing. Let's see how the initial picture emerges.”