Toto Wolff: Rivals will be fast in Qatar.

Toto Wolff: Rivals will be fast in Qatar.

      In Las Vegas Mercedes extended its lead over Red Bull Racing and Ferrari in the fight for second place in the Constructors' Championship. Team principal Toto Wolff expects more difficulties in Qatar, as the track's characteristics do not suit the W16 car.

      Toto Wolff: "There are two rounds left in the season. Heading into Qatar we have a solid advantage in the fight for second place in the Constructors' Championship, but nothing is guaranteed. In Las Vegas we clawed back points on our nearest rivals, but the weekend showed how quickly the situation can change. Our team performed well, and we intend to repeat that in Doha and Abu Dhabi.

      The sprint format this weekend will add difficulties, as will the restrictions on tyre usage. We need to start the first practice confidently and lay the foundation for further work — that will be key.

      We expect our rivals to be quick. Hot weather and fast corners haven't been a strong suit for our car this year. However, we are focused on our own tasks and will try to extract the maximum from the machinery at our disposal."

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Toto Wolff: Rivals will be fast in Qatar.

In Las Vegas, Mercedes extended its lead over Red Bull Racing and Ferrari in the battle for second place in the Constructors' Championship. Team principal Toto Wolff expects more difficulties in Qatar, as the track's characteristics do not suit the W16 car.