F1 | Mercedes, Wolff: “The relationship with Hamilton has strengthened”

The 2017 season will see Hamilton and Mercedes fight more united than ever towards winning the title. These are the impressions of Toto wolff ahead of the Australian GP.

The end of 2016 had been "poisoned" by the growing tensions of the title fight with Hamilton having disobeyed team orders during the Abu Dhabi GP. It's all water under the bridge for a team and a driver who now only think about the future.

“It was definitely difficult – Hamilton told German broadcaster RTL – but now I'm fit, I've worked harder than ever and I'm very focused”.

Wolff also recognized the English driver's newfound serenity: “After Abu Dhabi there were difficult moments for him, but like many athletes he was able to overcome them and prepare well for the new season. Our relationship with him has strengthened after these problems."

Also echoing Wolff's words Niki Lauda: “Lewis will certainly be motivated to win his fourth world title so as to catch up with Vettel. For him it is of particular importance."

Manuel Lai