Toto Wolff dismisses impact of radio rebuke message to Lewis Hamilton

Despite a challenging weekend for Mercedes at the Austrian Grand Prix, Toto Wolff is downplaying the significance of his unusual radio interaction with Lewis Hamilton.

Wolff rebuked Hamilton twice over the airwaves, reminding the driver to focus on handling the underperforming vehicle — a rarity for the Mercedes team principal.

"It was only for the best interest of the driver and the team. Sometimes there is a certain moment when you need to calm things down but I meant well," Wolff clarified.

This rebuke followed Hamilton's multiple exceeding of track limits, which resulted in an upgraded ten-second penalty, pushing him back to eighth place.

Despite this, Wolff dismisses any speculation that the incident will influence Hamilton's impending contract negotiations, adding, "We are not talking anymore about money, or duration, it is about other topics.”

Mercedes' problematic weekend extended to George Russell, who finished eighth in the main event.

No news on Hamilton’s contract extension is expected at Silverstone this weekend.

Ferrari justifies race strategy

Ferrari team principal, Frederic Vasseur, defended the team’s pre-race strategy following Carlos Sainz’s discontent at the Austrian Grand Prix.

Despite demonstrating speed and aptitude early in the race, Sainz’s requests to swap positions with team-mate Charles Leclerc were denied, leading to a somewhat “sour feeling.”

Vasseur maintains that the team's strategy was to utilise the DRS effect, extend the gap to the cars behind, and maintain their positions behind Red Bull's Max Verstappen.

This team-first strategy bore fruit as Leclerc finished second, securing Ferrari’s second podium finish of 2023.

Ferrari remains optimistic about their 2023 season trajectory, and Vasseur believes the team is on the right track after a major upgrade at the Spanish GP.

Iconic McLaren Chrome Livery Returns for British Grand Prix

McLaren is reviving its legendary chrome livery for the British Grand Prix, much to the delight of both fans and drivers.

This fan-favourite design, reminiscent of the 2006-2014 era, will feature on both Lando Norris’ and Oscar Piastri’s cars.

The special livery is part of McLaren's 60th birthday celebrations and marks their last championship win, courtesy of Hamilton in 2008.

Not only will the cars sport the retro look, but Norris and Piastri will also wear special race suits, with Norris showcasing a unique helmet design and boots.

“It’s no secret that racing fans love McLaren’s classic chrome livery… We’re excited to be able to give our fans what they want,” says CEO Zak Brown.

This one-off chrome livery is the result of a partnership with one of McLaren's main sponsors, Google.