Mercedes F1 Boss Toto Wolff to Miss 2019 Brazilian Grand Prix, First Leave of Absence Since 2013

After Peter Bonnington’s unexpected leave of absence for a single race, now another key member of the team will be absent. This time the absentee will be Mercedes chief Toto Wolff, who is reportedly focusing “on other open topics”

Fortunately for him, he can afford to miss this race, especially since both Formula 1 world titles are already wrapped up. A week ago, Lewis Hamilton took his sixth F1 world drivers’ crown in USA, while Mercedes bagged their sixth consecutive double in Japan. So, there is virtually no pressure on them at all.

In the Mercedes race preview, Wolff said, “Brazil will also be the first race since 2013 that I won’t attend. With both championships secured, it gives me more time in Europe to focus on other open topics.”

“It’s great to be able to do this and to know that the team will represent the three-pointed star in the best way possible both on and off the track.”

The Austrian also praised the Mercedes factory members for a job well done after another title double. last week after returning from Unites States round and feels the team is already focusing on repeating the feat in 2020.

“Last week we had the chance to celebrate the championships with everyone at Brixworth and Brackley – the 1,500 men and women that form this amazing team and made this extraordinary success possible,” he continued.

“It is always a special moment and this year’s was particularly special as our sixth consecutive double sets a new benchmark in our sport.

“But despite this record-breaking achievement, I still feel a lot of hunger and desire for more achievements. There’s no sense of complacency, everybody is still determined to keep on improving. It’s an inspiring group of people that fully lives up to the Mercedes aspiration of being the best.”