Wolff admits Mercedes shortcomings as he defends Russell after title defeat

Toto Wolff has defended George Russell after Kimi Antolin's championship win in Mexico. The Mercedes boss acknowledged that the team didn't always provide Russell with the car to perform this season. While Antolin became the youngest Formula 1 champion in history last weekend, Russell had to leave early due to his team's failure to secure the title.

In Mercedes preview for the upcoming Sao Paulo Grand Prix, Wolff emphasized that Russell's season was impacted by circumstances beyond his control. He praised the Briton for driving at an incredibly high level this season and acknowledging the quality he possesses. Despite the disappointment, Russell has continued to push and contributed significantly to the team.

As Mercedes heads to Interlagos with another title to secure, Wolff stated that their focus has already shifted to the constructors' championship. If Mercedes outscore Ferrari by three points or more in Brazil, they will clinch the constructors title. Wolff reiterated that securing both championships requires strong execution from both the race and the team's operations in Brackley and Brixworth.

He reiterated that nothing is won yet, as Interlagos is always a demanding weekend with little margin for error.