Toto Wolff defends Mercedes team strategy following Italian Grand Prix

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has rejected criticism regarding the team’s handling of George Russell during the Italian Grand Prix. Spectators questioned the decision to pit Kimi Antonelli under a virtual safety car while keeping Russell on his original strategy. Wolff stated the tire selection—with Antonelli on mediums and Russell on hards—necessitated the differing approaches. Antonelli went on to win the race after starting from 19th on the grid, extending his lead over Russell to 66 points in the standings. Wolff insisted there is no internal favoritism at Mercedes, though he acknowledged that the team must occasionally make difficult choices to manage their drivers during a title fight. Russell previously expressed support for the team's decision, noting the performance from his teammate.