Mercedes boss Toto Wolff made a direct appeal against public criticism of Formula 1, amidst debates about the 2026 regulations. The executive stated that the category is experiencing a positive moment and that negative comments could harm fans’ perception.
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The statement comes after several drivers, led by Max Verstappen, expressed dissatisfaction with the current rules. Wolff acknowledged that everyone has the right to an opinion, but argued that sensitive discussions should take place internally, among teams, drivers, the FIA, and Formula 1 itself.
According to the Austrian executive, everyone involved has a responsibility to preserve the category: “We, the drivers, the FIA, Formula 1, and the teams, are guardians. We need to understand our responsibility as guardians of this sport,” he stated. He added that it is necessary to respect what the category has provided and to work constructively to improve what is needed.
Wolff also directly criticized negative comments made publicly: “We all have our opinions and that is absolutely legitimate, but these opinions and discussions should happen more among stakeholders than in public.” For him, Formula 1 is in a strong position and has a significant fan base, which makes it important to avoid statements that could harm the category’s image.
The executive admitted, however, that everyone has contributed to this scenario at some point: “We have all fallen into this in the past, due to political games or to protect a situation,” he stated. Still, he reinforced that public statements can influence fans’ perception and that this requires caution.
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Wolff highlighted that constructive conversations have taken place in recent weeks, focusing on improvements, safety, and preserving the spectacle. He also warned against an overly nostalgic view of the past: “People speak highly of the 2000s and perhaps forget that there were seasons without overtakes,” he said, emphasizing that races without action do not benefit the public.
The Mercedes boss also commented on Oliver Bearman’s accident for Haas at the Japanese GP, classifying it as an error in judgment. Despite this, he reinforced that safety must be a priority, without ignoring that there are still ‘brilliant races’ happening. He cited examples from other categories, such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and races on the iconic Nordschleife-Nurburgring circuit (over 20 km long), especially the 24 Hours of Nurburgring, where speed differences and risks also exist, mainly because various types of different cars compete in these long-distance events.
Finally, Wolff stated that the goal should be to balance evolution and safety, always focusing on the collective good: “We must remember that we are guardians of the sport and have responsibility for the opportunity it has given us, instead of just looking at personal advantages,” concluded the Mercedes boss.
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