Mercedes lost the F1 drivers’ championship to Red Bull star Max Verstappen after a nail-biting finale in Abu Dhabi. However, there were reasons to celebrate for the Silver Arrows. The team won their 8th constructors’ title in a row after Red Bull driver Sergio Perez did not finish the race. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff and Valtteri Bottas went to a club after the debacle at the circuit.
Bottas made his last appearance with the Brackley outfit during the Abu Dhabi weekend. It was in a way a farewell party for the Finn, who will be replaced by George Russell at Mercedes.
Virgin Toto Wolff: Filling protests to the FIA
Chad Valtteri Bottas:pic.twitter.com/8g171M4aTN
— Pablo (@BloopGG) December 12, 2021
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Toto Wolff and Valtteri Bottas went clubbing in the Marina
The two Mercedes men went clubbing after the season finale in Abu Dhabi. Images and videos surfaced that show the two of them having a blast in the club after a few drinks. The two of them could be seen jamming to “I want it that way” and other melodies.
Mercedes went clubbing in the Marina. Come for Valtteri and The Backstreet Boys, stay for Toto and is that… Coldplay? https://t.co/ARjnzkw7dN
— Jenna Fryer (@JennaFryer) December 13, 2021
Bottas was given a much-deserved farewell by the team after 5 years with the Silver Arrows. The Finn bagged 58 podium finishes and 10 Grand Prix wins with the team.
Valtteri Bottas' last Mercedes helmet includes photos of his favorite memories with the team and a special message to Lewis ❤️ pic.twitter.com/jkYhMX4TXF
— ESPN F1 (@ESPNF1) December 10, 2021
A sour end for Mercedes
The intense battle went down to the wire in Abu Dhabi and it was Max Verstappen who had the last laugh. Red Bull ended their championship drought after 7 years. However, it did not come easy for both teams. The race was disarrayed by a safety car at the end and a contentious final lap.
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“As has no doubt been reported, we lodged a formal protest within the required 30 minute time window after the end of the race,” said Mercedes spokesperson after the race.
“We are disappointed there has been a protest, but we trust in the FIA,” replied Red Bull boss Horner about the race.
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However, the debate over the safety car period concluded after the Stewards rejected Mercedes’ appeal after the race. Max Verstappen is the champion of the world for the 2021 F1 season. Mercedes seemed to have gotten over the sour end and celebrated the constructors’ title and Valtteri Bottas’ farewell with all their heart.