Mercedes chief Toto Wolff says a “reality check” is needed over Formula 1's raised €1m fines, as they are 'very surreal' for fans amid the current cost of living crisis.
In the FIA's International Sporting Code, the governing body has increased the maximum fine for F1 competitors from €250,000 to one million euros, a move which appeared to have caught teams and drivers off guard. Several drivers, including GPDA director George Russell, voiced their concerns over what the Mercedes driver called 'obscene' figures because a lot of drivers make nowhere near that amount at the start of their F1 career.
'Yeah, I especially agree with what Toto said,” he said. “Let's keep our feet on the ground to be throwing with such numbers. 'We have spectators here that are buying tickets already for quite high prices and by throwing numbers around like we do currently, I think we need to come back a little bit more to reality. 'There are a lot of drivers who don't even make anything in these areas, so I don't know where it came from. I was caught out as well when I read it.
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Mercedes 'laughed' about driver antics during Toto Wolff's absenceLewis Hamilton and George Russell crashed on the opening lap of the Qatar Grand Prix.
Read more »
Man Utd takeover: Toto Wolff hails ‘no bullsh*t’ approach of ‘Manchester boy’ RatcliffeManchester United can look forward to a 'no bullsh*t' approach from Sir Jim Ratcliffe should the Glazers accept the INEOS owner's investment in the club.
Read more »
F1 boss Toto Wolff tells Man Utd what to expect from Sir Jim RatcliffeIneos have co-owned the F1 team since 2022.
Read more »
Wolff: My F1 absence didn’t trigger “unpleasant situations” between Mercedes driversMercedes boss Toto Wolff insists the “unpleasant situations” between his drivers in recent Formula 1 races was not linked to his absence.
Read more »
United States GP: Mercedes confirm floor upgrade to F1 car as team continue to set development route for 2024Mercedes' F1 technical director James Allison discusses the 2024 Mercedes
Read more »