Wolff declares 2021 'highs and lows' "how it feels to be alive"

Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff has delivered an "onwards and upwards" message at the end of a dramatic 2021 F1 season.

Although Mercedes managed to extend its own record with an eighth consecutive constructors' title, it missed out on another drivers' championship in controversial fashion.

Lewis Hamilton was poised to be crowned again in the season finale in Abu Dhabi, only to be denied on the last lap by Red Bull's Max Verstappen after a contentious safety car period following a crash involving Williams driver Nicholas Latifi.

After the team decided not to appeal in the wake of protests being rejected by the stewards, Wolff declared both himself and Hamilton disillusioned, leading to them opting not to attend the FIA's end-of-season prize-giving gala in Paris.

The seven-time champion has also shunned social media since qualifying at the Yas Marina Circuit, leading to questions as to whether he will return in 2022.

Speaking for the first time in a fortnight via a short video clip posted on Mercedes' Twitter feed, Wolff at least delivered a positive year-end message to the team's fans.

"Hi everyone," said Wolff. "So this is a wrap. 2021 is finished.

"There were some highs, there were some lows, some glory, some drama but in the end, this is how it feels to be alive.

"So I wish you a wonderful New Year's Eve and a happy 2022. Onwards and upwards."

The Boss wanted to share one last message to the Mercedes family before 2021 becomes '22! ? pic.twitter.com/vH5AQpPtMX

— Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) December 30, 2021

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