Carlos Sainz (front) and Lewis Hamilton (right) want to score a lot of points. © APA/afp / GIUSEPPE CACACE

Mercedes sends a declaration of war to Ferrari

The Mercedes works team, which has no chance in the Formula 1 title race, wants to at least defend second place among the designers until the end of the season - and keep Ferrari at bay.

04 October 2023

From: dpa

“With six races left, we are enjoying the fight and will give everything to stay ahead of them, starting this weekend in Qatar,” said Toto Wolff, the German carmaker’s motorsport boss, ahead of Sunday’s Grand Prix (19 p.m.). the Lusail International Circuit north of Doha.

Red Bull secured the team title early at the last race in Japan and is unassailable at the top with 623 points ahead of the World Cup round in the Arabian Gulf. Behind them, after 16 of 22 races, are Mercedes (305), Ferrari (285) and Aston Martin (221).

Mercedes Motorsport Director Toto Wolff has a clear goal in his sights. © APA/afp / ANDREJ ISAKOVIC

“We are returning to Lusail for the first time since 2021. The first Grand Prix there was successful for us, so we are looking forward to our return,” said Wolff. At the premiere two years ago, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton won ahead of current champion Max Verstappen. This weekend, the Dutchman Verstappen can secure his third title in a row ahead of schedule. For the 26-year-old, just three points in the sprint race on Saturday is enough.