Oct.30 (GMM) Toto Wolff insists he can still work two of the most important F1 personalities of today and tomorrow.
The first is F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone, who has not been shy in the last year to heavily criticise both Mercedes and its Austrian chief.
For instance, Ecclestone’s latest accusation is that, unlike great bosses like Frank Williams and Ron Dennis, Wolff is primarily in it for the money.
“Bernie’s probably annoyed that because of our success he has to pay more out of his pot to Mercedes,” Wolff smiled to Bild am Sonntag newspaper.
And the pair have showed they are civil in Mexico: Wolff attended Ecclestone’s 86th birthday party, and then sat down for a joint interview with Bild.
“I understand Bernie,” said Wolff. “He wants the best possible competition and to sell F1, but I want the best team.”
Another potential problem relationship for Wolff is with Ross Brawn, the former Mercedes chief who in his new book admitted he left the team because of a lack of trust.
And now, a British newspaper claims Brawn could be returning from retirement to oversee the sporting side of F1 for new owners Liberty.
“Yes, I read the article,” Wolff said.
“To start with, the book he wrote is talking about the change in team management, which is never painless,” he insisted.
“However, for me personally, there is no problem and in fact we are still in contact,” said Wolff. “We maintain a healthy relationship.”
Wolff even said Brawn would be a good candidate for a top F1 job.
“Ross has vast experience and knowledge, and is a suitable candidate to potentially contribute to the further development of formula one.
“If I need to vote for the return of Ross, then I am ready to do that,” he said.