Wolff optimistic about F1's steps to improve race management

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff is “optimistic” that new steps put in place to improve Formula One race management will prove successful, though he remains unhappy about how Lewis Hamilton lost the title last season.

Wolff spoke at the launch of the Mercedes W13 car on Friday, a day after Michael Masi was replaced as F1’s race director following the late controversy surrounding the title-deciding Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in December.

Motorsport’s governing body FIA reached its decision after an analysis of the wild season finale, where Red Bull driver Max Verstappen won his first world title after overtaking Hamilton on the last lap following a controversial race restart.

“Literally in half a minute of decision-making process (we lost the title). But we also have to move on from that," Wolff said. "We’re not going to forget it, because that’s simply not possible, but we need to look at 2022. I believe that the right steps have been taken and I'm optimistic about the changes that have been implemented.

“The last couple of years we have seen a little bit of freestyle in the interpretation of the regulations," he added. "So yes, I’m happy with what’s been implemented.”

The structural changes include a new soccer-style Virtual Race Control Room, while unlapping procedures behind safety cars will be reassessed before the first race in Bahrain on March 20.

Niels Wittich and Eduardo Freitas will act alternatively as race director, assisted by Herbie Blash as permanent senior advisor.

“Certainly the role of the race director is not easy, and now we have two very experienced guys out there,” Wolff said. “The support structure (is) not only in the race directors’ room but also with a remote-control room, where the race directors