Claiming that Mercedes has the best power unit on the grid, Toto Wolff prompted a reaction from Red Bull. Laurent Mekies shared his viewpoint after the Belgian Grand Prix.
Read more Lewis Hamilton reveals the extent of the damage to his Ferrari after his collision with Russell
Toto Wolff’s statements after the Belgian Grand Prix did not leave Red Bull indifferent. The Mercedes director had claimed that his team had the most powerful power unit in Formula 1, despite the problems encountered by George Russell at Spa-Francorchamps.
An analysis that sparked many reactions, especially because an FIA evaluation carried out earlier this season within the framework of the ADUO system (Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities) had designated the Red Bull engine as the benchmark for thermal engines.
Wolff stands by it: “We have the most powerful engine”
After the race, Toto Wolff acknowledged that the Mercedes engines suffered from a power issue on the straights during the Belgian weekend.
Despite this failure, the Austrian was categorical.
“We encountered a problem on all Mercedes engines on the straights, and this heavily penalized George. It is entirely our responsibility. But we have the most powerful power unit.”
Laurent Mekies surprises with his response
When asked about this statement, Laurent Mekies did not try to contradict it. On the contrary, the Red Bull boss also believes that Mercedes currently has the most powerful power unit.
“I think Toto is right. I also think they have the most powerful power unit.”
Read more Max Verstappen recounts a scary moment at Spa: «I thought we were going to take off»
According to Mekies, Mercedes’ advantage in top speed was particularly visible at Spa.
“They clearly had a significant advantage on the straights this weekend. But this is nothing new: most of the time, they already have an advantage in this area. At Spa, this difference was simply even more visible due to the characteristics of the circuit.”
Red Bull awaits the next regulatory deadline
The Red Bull boss nevertheless reminds that the situation could still evolve in the coming weeks.
The ADUO system, which governs the development possibilities of engine manufacturers according to their performance level, is due for a new evaluation period after the Hungarian Grand Prix.
“We will see what happens. As you say, this second period ends in Budapest in a week. We will see what the conclusions will be.”
These statements show in any case that, despite the previous FIA conclusions regarding the Red Bull thermal engine, Mercedes continues to be perceived as a benchmark when it comes to the overall performance of its power unit.
Read more Toto Wolff at Russell’s side after a disastrous weekend