Mercedes solve weakness, but Ferrari faster? Wolff has a theory...

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has revealed that the Silver Arrows are in a “better space” with regards to their overheating engines, which cost them dearly during the high temperatures of the Austrian Grand Prix.

With Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen battling for the victory at the Red Bull Ring, and the Dutchman winning, Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas were off the pace. After the race, both drivers complained that the engines were struggling to cool in the extreme heat on the track.

With temperatures set to soar again this weekend for the German GP, Wolff says the team has improved in this area. However, he still reckons Ferrari look strong due to their speed and grip round the corners at Hockenheim, following two free practice sessions on Friday.

“In terms of engine cooling, we're in a good space. It was not a problem anymore. Or, better space,” the Austrian told Sky Sports.

“I think it is the grip level. We have seen the Ferraris going very strong through the corners today, and that should have been us in the past. But, I think we are limited by surface overheating.

What we learned from Friday at the German Grand PrixRead more

“I think everyone brought an upgrade. Some are advertising them more than others. But, you need to think that everyone has brought it.”

Looking at the overall Mercedes performance in day one of the practice sessions, Wolff reckons it is not easy to judge the level the team is at due to the heat.

“Difficult to judge,” he replied when asked to sum up his feelings on the day.

“It is so hot, that all teams are plateauing on the grip level. You overheat the surface at a certain stage and you can't really extract downforce anymore.”

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