Lewis Hamilton’s Rejection Doesn’t Impact Ferrari & Mercedes’ Relationship as Duo Joins Forces to Fight Against Alpine’s Claim

In the realm of Formula 1, much of what transpires behind the curtains remains concealed from public view. Nevertheless, what frequently comes to light is the occurrence where when a team raises concerns, others tend to have their own reservations. A similar situation has arisen recently, as evidenced by the rejection of Lewis Hamilton to join Ferrari. In response, to address this issue, Toto Wolff has joined forces with Frederic Vasseur despite being old friends with Mattia Binotto.

During last month’s Belgian Grand Prix, the F1 Commission convened to address a significant issue regarding engine equalization. This discussion coincided with the timing of the speculation about Mattia Binotto’s potential move to the Enstone outfit. However, the primary concern for Alpine was securing special permission from the FIA for its power unit supplier. In essence, the Enstone team aimed to regain a potential 30 Bhp compared to Ferrari, Mercedes, and Honda.

Toto Wolff joins Frederic Vasseur to slam Alpine’s claim

Despite Alpine’s push, Ferrari boss Frederic Vasseur expressed skepticism. His reservations centered on the magnitude of the problem. Vasseur believed that the exemption sought by Renault could only be justified if the rival team were “far out of reach.” Nonetheless, the 55-year-old was uncertain about the performance level of Alpine’s engine, indicating that he wasn’t entirely convinced that Renault was significantly trailing behind.

During Mattia Binotto’s tenure, mutual respect marked the relationship between Ferrari and Mercedes. Toto Wolff, in particular, expressed sympathy for Binotto’s departure from Ferrari. Now, with Lewis Hamilton declining Ferrari’s advances to lure him, the rapport between the two teams still remains strong. In an unexpected turn, the Mercedes team principal has partnered with Ferrari to oppose Alpine.

Autosport quoted Wolff stating that Renault’s engine performance shortfall is within a 3% margin, which he believes does not warrant special privileges. He said, “How we designed the regulations was that for 2026, if one of the constructors would fall outside of 3% to the best power unit, we would allow them to have more dyno time and we would act in best faith and find regulations. Now, we’re not talking 2026, but we’re mid into those regulations and it’s true it’s frozen. But Fred is absolutely right, we don’t see anything close to 3%.”

Toto Wolff has extensive experience in the Formula 1 industry and is well-versed in the strategies used to run the business. In light of that, the CEO of Mercedes has brought attention to a problem that could signal the beginning of Formula 1’s demise with Alpine’s self-serving motives.

READ MORE: Toto Wolff Hypocritically Accuses RB of Favoring Max Verstappen Despite Mercedes Mastermind’s Similar Lewis Hamilton Claim

After Alpine’s demands, Toto Wolff highlights a serious issue

No team in Formula will want to have competitors on an equal footing. The sides even consider this unfavorable for any opposition teams. Considering this, Toto Wolff took the initiative to propose that discussions regarding equalizing power units should not even take place among the teams.

According to a report by the Race the head of the Mercedes team expressed this viewpoint. He said, “Touching any kind of fuel flow, or BoP is a catastrophe and bankruptcy declaration for F1. It should never be talked about.”

Do you think the FIA will give a second thought to the Enstone’s demand?

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