Wolff comforts Russell after Antonelli title defeat

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has offered encouragement to George Russell, who he says has been hard on himself after losing the drivers' championship to Kimi Antonelli. Antonelli clinched his first world title at the most recent race, having won five consecutive races after Russell's dominant opening round in Australia.

Wolff said Russell had faced circumstances beyond his control, including reliability issues and safety car luck, and that the team had not always given him a car capable of performing. He added that Russell's continued effort and contribution to the team said much about him.

Russell can still win a world title by helping Mercedes secure the Constructors' championship at the Brazilian Grand Prix, where Mercedes must outscore Ferrari by at least three points. Wolff said the team remained focused on finishing the job at Interlagos.