Mercedes "desperate" with Abu Dhabi protests - Horner

Red Bull team principal Chrisitan Horner has described Mercedes brace of post-race protests in Abu Dhabi as "desperate" after the FIA stewards dismissed both claims.

A late-race safety car sparked chaos at the Yas Marina Circuit with Verstappen able to pit for soft tyres and then close onto the gearbox of Hamilton after a number of cars were instructed to unlap themselves.

Believing the sporting regulations had been broken, Mercedes protested two articles claiming with one that Verstappen had overtaken under safety car conditions, with the other relating to broader procedural matters.

“It obviously felt a little bit desperate but we didn’t want it to finish in front of the stewards," said Horner.

"They’ve been great competitors all year and Lewis has been a phenomenal driver. It's had its moments, it's been intense, it's been tough, but we’re just delighted with the outcome and are very proud of Max who has been phenomenal all year.”

After the dismissal of its protests, Mercedes announced its intention to appeal the ruling.

The team has 96 hours to formally appeal and Horner conceded he would not be surprised if Mercedes were to persist.

He added: “I wouldn’t be surprised. I was surprised we ended up in front of the stewards over the incidents as it was.

"I wouldn’t be surprised if they were to appeal but I think the race director made his position clear, the stewards made their position clear and the ruling is very clear.”

Asked if a protest could jeopardise the FIA prize-giving event on Thursday, Horner said: “I hope not.”

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