adminMercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff says it would be a “nightmare” if Lewis Hamilton had a car failure in the title-deciding Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Hamilton heads into the final race of the season 17 points clear of team-mate Nico Rosberg and needs to finish second if the German wins to clinch the title.
“Clearly, Lewis breaking down would be a nightmare,” said Wolff.
“We want the championship to end in a straight and fair battle and not by one of them breaking down.”
Hamilton has won 10 races to Rosberg’s five this season, but has a relatively small advantage over the German as a result of a suffering more problems over the season.
The British driver’s task is made harder because of the award of double points at the final race — otherwise, Hamilton would need to finish only sixth to clinch the title even if Rosberg won.
Wolff said he regretted the decision to introduce double points this season. It was pushed by F1 commercial boss Bernie Ecclestone but agreed by all the major teams and governing body the FIA.
“We have had a big backlash from the fans and many vocal personalities who don’t like the system,” Wolff said.
“I have been a racing driver myself and I wouldn’t have wanted to have double points. The decision we all took together probably wasn’t the right one and we need to change it for the future.” — BBC Sport
Online Reporter