Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff has explained that the team released a strongly worded statement on Thursday because they felt Red Bull had crossed the line in terms of criticism directed at Lewis Hamilton. The fallout continues from the incident between the seven-time World Champion and Max Verstappen at the British GP, as Red Bull's request to have the Briton's penalty review was turned down. Mercedes released a statement shortly after that accused Red Bull of trying to tarnish Hamilton's name . "I think we wanted to bring a little bit of respect back to the discussion," Wolff told RacingNews365.com and other members of the media. "We understand that emotions can run high and it is always a matter of perspective and perception, but we felt that line was overstepped. "I think the remarks that were made during and after the Silverstone Grand Prix were just elaborated further in the document and not always looking at the incident only, but giving it a wider taste and that was, beyond other things, just a step too far." When asked about the specific allegations directed at Hamilton, Wolff explained he wouldn't elaborate on what was said. “I can’t, because I don’t want to ignite even more the fire, and the controversy," Wolff added. "I think what we need to do as a sports team is to de-escalate and not create more polarisation on social media.”
Most read
