Toto Wolff has slammed the FIA for launching a "personal attack" that "crossed the line" after its investigation into an alleged conflict of interest.
Formula 1's governing body announced it was launching an investigation into a team principal and Formula 1 Management (FOM) member of staff after a report of confidential information being passed on.
However, the investigation was quickly closed with no further action, with all nine other teams issuing statements denying they were the source of the allegation which came from a "member of FOM personnel," according to the initial statement.
Mercedes claimed it was not made aware beforehand of the FIA statement, and is involved in an "active legal exchange" with the body over the incident, with F1 Academy director Susie Wolff writing on social media that she was "deeply insulted" over the insinuation of wrong-doing on her part.
And while Wolff is prepared to take attacks himself, he felt his family was unjustifiably attacked in the saga.
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"After ten years as a team boss, I'm already [used to hearing things], but this story was shocking," Wolff told Bild.
"When I'm caught in the crossfire, that's not a problem for me at all.
"I've developed a thick skin and can take it. But when you go after my family, it's a different level.
"An absurd accusation was created out of nowhere. It was a personal attack that crossed a red line.
"[Susie and I] are professional enough to keep our different fields of expertise apart. I don't really see where our work has much overlap with each other."
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