Wolff sees Verstappen's performance in perspective: 'Not that superior'

Max Verstappen impressed during the first two free practice sessions in Belgium on Friday. Although Toto Wolff recognises that the Dutchman has reached a high level, he does not believe it is impossible to beat the reigning world champion.

Mercedes has a good chance of getting back on the podium with at least one driver this weekend. Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc have opted to have their engines replaced and must therefore try to drive towards the top five from the back.

It offers the German team opportunities to score points. However, it will not be easy to keep up with the competition. Not only will it have to contend with Sergio Perez and Carlos Sainz, who will be starting with a competitive car, but Verstappen proved at the Hungarian Grand Prix that he can cope with a difficult starting position and even take victory.

Wolff, however, remains calm. "Max will be hard to beat, but the gap of eight tenths is deceptive," the team boss stressed in conversation with Auto, Motor und Sport. "He is not that superior. He clearly put his tyres in a perfect situation during the lap."