Toto Wolff issues damning Mercedes F1 pace verdict

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has suggested his squad is anticipating it will be competing behind its direct rivals at the opening round of the F1 season.

The new F1 campaign gets underway this weekend in Australia with Mercedes ushering in the start of a new chapter.

For the first time since 2013, it will be without Lewis Hamilton in its driver line-up as the seven-time champion has opted to join Ferrari.

Hamilton has been replaced by rookie Kimi Antonelli who completed his pre-season preparations in Bahrain last month alongside team-mate George Russell.

While Wolff is pleased with how the team has readied itself, the Austrian asserted Mercedes will not be in a position to be labelled as the fastest team at the first grand prix weekend.

“As a team, we had an uphill challenge over the winter,” Wolff said. 

“Our competitors finished 2024 strongly and we know that Ferrari, Red Bull, and McLaren in particular, should have a performance advantage over us initially. 

“We can be pleased with the work we have done in the off-season, and the test in Bahrain.

“Both drivers commented favourably on the W16 after the three days, and we seem to have made improvements. 

“Of course, the only thing that matters is how we measure up against the stopwatch relative to our competitors. We will certainly begin to get a clearer picture on that this weekend.”

Mercedes kicking off 'exciting' next F1 chapter

Mercedes is seeking a return to competitive form this year after struggling for pace across the last three seasons.

As it kicks off its new era without Hamilton, Wolff asserted it marks the start of an exciting journey for Mercedes.

“We will write the opening lines of our next chapter at the Australian Grand Prix,” he said.

“It's an exciting time as we build upon the incredible legacy of the Mercedes brand in motorsport. 

“We will be striving to set new benchmarks and fulfil new dreams in the years ahead. 

“That will take every single one of us: from the drivers to the mechanics, engineers, everyone at Brackley and Brixworth and, of course, our fans.

“Australia is always a great place for a race. The circuit is challenging for the drivers and a real test for the car. 

“The fans are always out in force and Melbourne is a fantastic venue to kick off the new season.”