Share

Toto Wolff admits Ferrari 'half a second ahead' of Mercedes

Toto Wolff has confirmed reports that Ferrari appears to be leading the entire 2019 field by half a second.

"I agree with Franz (Tost). Realistically, it looks like Ferrari is half a second ahead," said the Mercedes boss.

Can't win forever

Not only that, the perception in the paddock is that not only Ferrari is ahead of the reigning champions, but Red Bull as well.

READ: Ferrari advantage 'at least' 5 tenths - Franz Tost

"You can't be the favourites for ever. But we haven't shown everything possible that we can do yet," Wolff said in Barcelona.

However, he admitted that Ferrari is yet to max out its 2019 performance either.

Some believe the reason for Ferrari's lead is its front wing design, with the rules having changed over the winter.

'Change the approach'

"We appreciate the concept of their car, but we are confident that our choice will work across the season," said Wolff.

"If not, we will have to change the approach, but it will take weeks."

World champion Lewis Hamilton admitted that Ferrari looks "very, very strong" at the first test of 2019.

Sebastian Vettel recently said his car is "close to perfection", to which Hamilton responded to a reporter when told about it: "Good for him."

Even Ferrari team boss Mattia Binotto thinks Mercedes is currently lagging behind.

"Mercedes is good at solving problems. If they are behind, they will catch up quickly," he said.

F1 legend Alain Prost is in Barcelona as a Renault advisor, and he told Auto Bild: "The Ferrari is like on rails, while the Mercedes is more nervous."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()