As the Formula 1 season reaches its climax, Mercedes executives are leaving nothing to chance ahead of the historic Las Vegas Grand Prix, scheduled for this weekend. After a somewhat lackluster performance in Brazil, where Lewis Hamilton finished eighth, the team is determined to finish the season on a high note, and team principal Tot Wolff is taking a no-nonsense approach.
Wolff, who has never been to Las Vegas, is keen on ensuring that the team remains focused and avoids the allure of the city's famous casinos. In a stern statement, Wolff asserted, "I don't gamble, and I'm going to make sure no one else does!" The team's commitment to maintaining a disciplined approach reflects their determination to rebound from the challenges faced in the previous race.
Acknowledging the logistical complexities of navigating the bustling city during the race weekend, Wolff commended Liberty Media for organizing the event, likening racing in Las Vegas to climbing Mount Everest. Despite uncertainties about transportation from the hotel to the track, Wolff expressed confidence that the team would find practical solutions.
"We still don't know how we'll get from the hotel to the city and back, but we'll find a solution," he assured. Wolff's focus on the job at hand is unwavering, emphasizing that, despite the festive atmosphere of Las Vegas, he is more concerned with the team's performance on the track than engaging in the city's entertainment offerings.
"Looking at the track itself, it seems to me that we're here more for fun than racing, but I'm not interested in that. I'm more into style; I'm here to do my job and I'm leaving," he affirmed to Planet F1. With expectations high for the Las Vegas Grand Prix, which marks the end of a 41-year hiatus, approximately 100,000 spectators are anticipated to witness the event live.
The Mercedes team is eager to put their best foot forward, ensuring that their drivers and staff remain focused on the racing challenge that lies ahead rather than succumbing to the temptations of the iconic city's renowned attractions.