Mercedes Boss Wolff Slams "Petty" Red Bull Protest After Russell's Canadian GP Win

Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has launched a stinging critique of Red Bull Racing following their unsuccessful challenge against George Russell's victory at the Canadian Grand Prix. Wolff branded the protest "petty" and "embarrassing" after stewards dismissed it hours after the race concluded.

Red Bull alleged Russell displayed unsportsmanlike conduct during a safety car period, specifically accusing the Mercedes driver of deliberately attempting to compromise Max Verstappen, who faced potential penalty risks. The FIA stewards ultimately rejected the claim after a lengthy review.

"It took Red Bull two hours to file this protest. That tells its own story," Wolff commented sharply during an event in New York. "Honestly, it feels incredibly petty and small-minded. We've seen this pattern before in Miami, where they lodged two protests and had to retract one because it was clearly unfounded."

Wolff dismissed Red Bull's specific accusations as baseless. "They invent these obscure, far-fetched clauses to justify these actions. The FIA rightly rejected it. Racing should be settled on the track – wins and losses. This was a fair victory for George and Mercedes, just like the many wins Red Bull has earned fairly. Resorting to this is simply embarrassing."

The failed protest marks the second time in five races that Red Bull has targeted Russell. Their earlier objection to his Miami podium finish, concerning alleged conduct under yellow flags, was also rejected by officials. Russell's Montreal triumph ended a ten-race win drought for Mercedes this season.

While the rivalry between Russell and Verstappen is well-documented, Wolff absolved the reigning champion of blame for the protest. "I'm certain Max wasn't behind this. He's a pure racer. He wouldn't protest over something so trivial. The question is, who within Red Bull is pushing this agenda?" Wolff questioned.

Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner defended his team's decision. "We have no regrets. If we see something we believe is incorrect, it's our right to seek clarification from the stewards. We exercised that right," Horner stated.

The intense rivalry shifts to Red Bull's home ground next. The Formula 1 grid reconvenes at the Red Bull Ring in Austria on June 29th, where tensions are sure to remain high.