Formula One is a controversial sport, as there are some things that are clearly not winnable in the game. There is a massive amount of luck involved, and the game could shift in any direction at any point. Therefore the table toppers always look for familiarities so that they can use them to maintain their position at the top. However, the FIA has not been specific about some of its decision-making criteria. And up until now, there were no questions on FIA because no such incident has inspired such questions. But after the last race in Melbourne, fans, along with all the teams, are in dilemma about certain F1 rules. Toto Wolff is also asking for many clear rules in the sport.
It looks like the Mercedes boss has got a problem with rule-making authorities about the safety cars and red flags. The two rules are there to secure the drivers to avoid accidents. And if such incidents or crashes happen, they get attention at the earliest. Toto wants to know what kind of incident triggers which response from stewards. Alongside Toto, team Ferrari is also looking for some answers regarding all the rules that exist in F1. The incident that both the teams are talking about is the Melbourne incident. The race saw three red flags. Although it was very entertaining for the spectators, it came as a surprise for many teams.
What Actually Happened In Melbourne?
The Australian Grand Prix led to many controversies. It had a total of three red flags, and Toto Wolff is furious as to what triggered one, not another. The guidelines from the FIA are not very clear, and all the cars are then on mercy from stewards of the race. Therefore the team principal and one-third owner of the Mercedes demanded clarifications on the rules.
The first safety car came into play because of Alex Albon’s crash in the gravel. But then the race completely stopped with a red flag when Kevin Magnussen crashed his car. The question that arises is why the different treatments for similar situations. And Toto’s anger for justification is obvious as it holds the teams back tactically. Moreover, the unpredictability also compromises the team under such circumstances.
“You could have used both [VSC and Safety Car] in these incidents,” Toto said. According to the Mercedes boss, F1 is so successful because it’s a sport, and they stick to the rules. However, it is also important that the same rules apply to everyone, as per Wolff. That is why he wishes clarification so that the teams are not blind to the next such incidents happen.
Toto Wolff Applauds Aston Martin’s Performance
Aston Martin has come up after racing the midfielders in the middle of last year. And fast forward to this year, the team is giving a hard time to Mercedes and Ferrari. It has been a remarkable improvement for them. And Toto Wolff, among all, has acknowledged it. He knows that it is not a jump that came from a simple stroke of luck for Aston Martin but sheer hard work and determination.
“We have to recognize that one team has done a better job than all the others,” said Wolff. Moreover, Mercedes believes that this is the reason why F1 needs a more financially stable future. More restrictions will create more competition in the race.