Wolff says next two races important to sort out Mercedes W16

With Spa-Francorchamps and Zandvoort providing contrasting challenges that will shape the team’s immediate and long-term direction, Mercedes team principal Wolff said ahead of this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix: “The next two Grands Prix provide an opportunity to head into the summer break with momentum.

“In the first 12 races of the season, we have been at the front of the field on several occasions. At others, we have struggled. We have focused our energies on improving this delta, working hard to ensure we can be competitive at all events," explained the Austrian.

Wolff confirmed the team’s attention will gradually shift towards 2026 after the break, but emphasised the importance of maximising results in Belgium and Hungary. “These next two races are therefore important in ensuring we get the W16 into as good a place as possible across varying tracks and conditions. Spa and the Hungaroring are useful venues for helping us continue that work."

"They are different in character; Spa with its elevation changes, high-speed corners, and changeable weather contrasts with the tight, twisty circuit layout of Budapest that often sees some of the highest track temperatures of the year. We will aim to make good steps with the car whilst optimising each weekend and fighting for strong results," declared Wolff.

Spa, hosting its 100th anniversary Grand Prix this weekend and Mercedes-Benz’s 600th F1 engine supplier appearance, will again feature a Sprint format. At 7.004km, it remains the longest circuit on the calendar, placing high demands on tyre wear and power unit performance.

The race will run over 44 laps, the fewest of any Grand Prix this year, with the tow effect particularly powerful through Eau Rouge and Raidillon.

Rain remains a key factor, with a 56% chance of wet conditions across the weekend – the highest likelihood of any circuit this season. Mercedes, which holds six Spa victories including Fangio’s in 1955, will be looking to capitalise on the mixed weather and long straights to continue their progress before the summer reset.

Last year, Mercedes endured a dramatic weekend at the Belgian Grand Prix, where George Russell crossed the finish line first after a bold one-stop strategy but was later disqualified for his car being 1.5 kg under the minimum weight. The disqualification handed victory to teammate Lewis Hamilton, who had finished just 0.526 seconds behind, marking his 105th career win and fifth at Spa-Francorchamps.

Wolff admitted the team’s error, calling it a painful lesson and expressing deep regret for Russell, who had driven a near-perfect race. The disqualification cost Mercedes what would have been their first one-two finish of the season. Russell expressed heartbreak but took pride in his on-track performance, vowing to come back stronger.

Oscar Piastri and Charles Leclerc were promoted to second and third, respectively. Despite the setback, Mercedes showed strong pace and strategic sharpness at Spa, offering signs of promise heading into the summer break.

Heading to Round 13 in Belgium this weekend, Mercedes are P3 in the 2025 F1 Constructors' Championship, while Russell is P4 on the Drivers' points table, with rookie Kim i Antonelli P7.