Wolff: ‘You Need to Kick Me Quite Hard in a Sensitive Zone’ for Russell-Bottas Swap at Mercedes

Mercedes will reminisce about the last two races this season for a very long time. Finally, we acknowledge the true worth of Max Verstappen’s talent. After a brave stint at the Yas Marina, he did not have to settle for a P3 any longer. He took the checkered flag home yesterday, instead of the P3 seat from the press meet.

Mercedes is one team on the grid that is yet to finalize their team for next season. With Lewis Hamilton’s contract already under discussion, fans expect news anytime now. However, after a shocking Sakhir Grand Prix with Russell, there was considerable speculation about Bottas in 2021.

It wasn’t that Mercedes hinted at a switch between Russell and Bottas. Instead, it was just the other pundits on the paddock that threw a stone at the possibility. However, following the race at Abu Dhabi, team principal, Toto Wolff cleared the doubts about that subject.

“He’s going to be in our car, I’m hereby confirming it. We have a contract with Valtteri. He’s going to race next year.

“You need to kick me quite hard in a sensitive zone for me to ever lose my loyalty. And I am loyal to my two race drivers,” remarked Toto.

Mercedes have had a tough couple of weekends. They committed to a grave pit stop blunder at Sakhir and somehow could not catch Verstappen’s speeding Red Bull at Yas Marina. To further aggravate the situation, their blunder at Sakhir cost Russell his podium.

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Mercedes Principal assures Russell’s efforts will be rewarded

George was flying at the Bahrain Circuit. He had very well adjusted to the car and no one could make out whether it was Lewis Hamilton or George Russell driving. Considering his performance, he was sure to get his first F1 podium; however, fate had other plans for him.

Toto Wolff assumes full responsibility for that fact and reassures that Russell’s efforts have not gone to waste. The young Briton, like his champion compatriot, promises sheer talent that could get nurtured. All he needs is a chance to prove himself.

“I’m loyal to our junior drivers. George did a phenomenal job last weekend. He deserves to be in a great car one day. He has a contract with Williams for another year.

“They have been very flexible and accommodating in having George, giving George to Mercedes this other weekend, and everything is going to go its way. But calmly, and in a structured way,” concluded Wolff.

Mercedes have a knack for surprising its fans. They like to do things in their own unique manner. However, the fans are getting impatient. Everyone is rooting for Lewis’ contract and they will not want to disappoint their fans.

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