Wolff points to F1 rivals over ‘pattern’ concern

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has asserted his squad has been part of a “pattern” seen at the front of the F1 grid this season.

A highly competitive campaign has seen four teams win at least three races - including Mercedes.

The Brackley-based outfit endured a difficult start to the year but made steps forward in the mid-part of the season, winning three out of the four races before the summer break.

However, it has struggled ever since, scoring just one podium in the previous five races.

Mercedes has largely struggled for form under the current set of technical regulations, but Wolff has defended how the team has conducted itself in that time.

“All these years that was a good mindset that we had in the organisation, to be just never good enough,” Wolff told media including RacingNews365.

“But where we are now, clearly this inconsistency that we have with ground-effect cars for two and a half years is something that we just need to get on top of.”

Red Bull commenced the current season in strong fashion but has failed to win a grand prix since June.

McLaren and Ferrari have also endured inconsistent periods - leading Wolff to assert Mercedes' situation does not differ greatly from its direct competitors.

“I don't think we are far away,” he said. “It's that step away to understand more. But it's not only us.

“When you see the fluctuations in performances between the McLarens, the Red Bulls and then Ferrari, in all directions.

“There is some commonality and pattern that we can see.”