Toto Wolff has urged critics of Formula 1's new regulations to refrain from publicly disparaging the sport, ahead of a crucial meeting on Monday. The Mercedes team principal stressed the importance of behind-the-scenes discussions among stakeholders rather than airing grievances in the public eye.
New engine and chassis regulations introduced this year, which split power nearly equally between internal combustion and electrical sources, have led to significant changes in the racing spectacle. Drivers have been forced to 'lift-and-coast' on straights to harvest energy, and overtaking has been branded 'artificial' due to numerous aids. Four-time world champion Max Verstappen and reigning champion Lando Norris have been among the most vocal critics, while Wolff's Mercedes team leads the championship with three wins from three races.
Speaking on a media call, Wolff delivered an uninterrupted seven-minute response, saying: 'We need to understand our responsibility as guardians of this sport. We all have our opinions and that is absolutely legit. But these opinions and discussions should happen among stakeholders more than in the public eye.' He added: 'We shouldn't badmouth the sport in public. The impact comes with a lag. That’s the responsibility we have.'
Wolff also cautioned against viewing the past through a nostalgic lens, pointing out that previous eras often featured little or no overtaking. He referenced Ollie Bearman's crash in Japan, describing it as a misjudgement rather than a systemic issue, and highlighted that even beloved series like Le Mans have significant speed differentials and crashes. 'Will it always be the safest sport? It won’t. It’s about reducing the risks but always reminding ourselves that we are guardians of the sport,' he said.
Monday's meeting is expected to ratify tweaks to the regulations aimed at improving flat-out driving in qualifying and addressing safety concerns. The changes are likely to be implemented ahead of the Miami Grand Prix on 3 May, round four of the 2026 season.
