Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has admitted that an engine power deficit directly led to George Russell's crash with Lewis Hamilton on the opening lap of the Belgian Grand Prix.
Russell suffered a race-ending collision after losing electrical power on the run to Les Combes, sending his car into the gravel following contact with Hamilton.
>>> Lamborghini Temerario Ad Personam: Two Unique Models Inspired by Design Sketches
Wolff took full responsibility for the technical failure, confirming the power loss left Russell vulnerable on track.
"We had an issue on all Mercedes engines that we lacked the power out on the straights.
That bit him badly and it goes 100% on us," Wolff said.
He added that the team supports Russell completely, noting that half of the difficult weekend was due to the power unit and the other half may be on driving.
"We are in this together, we all make mistakes. Today is the mistake of the team and another day is going to be the driver.
>>> Jeff Bezos and UK Government Invest in AI Startup CuspAI Valued at £2bn
We just need to minimise it and support each other," Wolff said.
The incident allowed Kimi Antonelli to win the race, extending his championship lead over Russell to 50 points.
Russell expressed deep frustration after falling further behind in the title race, noting the straight-line speed deficit forced him to defend against Ferraris.
Wolff acknowledged the emotional pressure following an early retirement, saying he will "try to put my arm around him."
>>> Spain Defeats France 2-0 to Advance to World Cup Final
Race stewards penalised Hamilton with a five-second time penalty for the contact, but Hamilton viewed it as a standard racing incident caused by Russell's sudden loss of momentum.
