The tension between George Russell and Kimi Antonelli in the Sprint race of the Canadian GP stirred the Formula 1 paddock this Saturday, but Mercedes boss Toto Wolff received praise for how he managed the situation within the team. Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher highlighted the Austrian manager’s experience in handling conflicts between teammates after the incident in the Sprint.
Read more F1: Russell downplays tension with Antonelli after Sprint race
The young Antonelli showed irritation during the race, accusing Russell of forcing him off the track while attempting an overtaking maneuver. The Italian’s reaction over the radio led Wolff to intervene quickly, asking the driver to leave the discussion for a private conversation after the race.
Despite the heated atmosphere during the Sprint race, the environment seemed calmer when Antonelli spoke to the press before the qualifying session for Sunday’s GP. The Italian had already put the frustration behind him as he prepared for the starting grid battle in Montreal.
Schumacher recalled that Wolff has experienced similar situations before, especially during the intense rivalry between Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg in the 2016 Formula 1 season. For the German, this background helps the Mercedes boss manage delicate moments within the team.
“Yes, he is open and honest about it. He also knows that we have been in this for quite some time. You can tell that, and above all, he knows how to deal with young drivers,” Schumacher told German Sky Sports after the qualifying session.
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The former driver also highlighted Wolff’s experience working with talents in junior categories: “He also raced. At that time he was at HWA in DTM, working with young drivers. I think that is what sets him apart,” added Schumacher.
Russell maintained excellent performance in Canada by securing pole position for both the Sprint and the GP, as well as winning the short race. Still, Schumacher made a point of praising Antonelli for the pace shown throughout Saturday in Montreal.
“My guess remains this: Kimi was faster. And getting so close to George with just one lap was a very strong performance,” concluded the German, who also emphasized that Mercedes will need to survive the first corners of the main race to avoid new internal problems.
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