Mercedes target Ferrari and McLaren for battle, not Max Verstappen dominance

While acknowledging the dominant streak of Red Bull's Max Verstappen, Wolff envisions a realistic battle with Ferrari and McLaren rather than aiming solely to dethrone the reigning champion.

Mercedes, amidst their third attempt at a ground effects car, face a slower start compared to previous seasons. Currently occupying fourth place in the F1 standings after the initial four races, the team encounters hurdles, yet remain resolute in their pursuit.

Wolff's optimism stems from the resurgence of rivals Ferrari and McLaren in the 2023 season. Reflecting on their remarkable transformations, he highlights the volatile nature of F1 performance, emphasizing the potential for fluctuations throughout the championship.

"We are Mercedes and we cannot completely abandon the current regulations," Wolff asserts, underscoring the team's commitment to excellence despite current challenges. "That's not the ambition of the brand and our partners."

While acknowledging the dominance of Verstappen, who has clinched victory in 22 out of the last 26 grands prix, Wolff maintains a pragmatic approach, focusing on the achievable rather than the formidable.

"The swings will still happen, but at the moment, we are not able to fight them [Ferrari and McLaren]," Wolff states. "But it is a realistic target, much more realistic than [catching] Max."

Looking ahead to the upcoming F1 Chinese Grand Prix, Mercedes prepares for a strategic showdown. Set to unfold at the Shanghai International Circuit, the race marks the fifth in the 2024 season. 

With the introduction of Sprint weekends, drivers face intensified challenges, navigating the track within a limited timeframe before engaging in the Sprint qualifying session 60 minutes later.

As Mercedes navigate the twists and turns of the season, the pursuit of excellence remains unwavering. With eyes firmly set on Ferrari and McLaren, the team embarks on a journey fuelled by determination, resilience, and a relentless quest for victory in the ever-evolving landscape of Formula 1.