The 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix remains one of the most debated races in Formula 1 history, cementing Max Verstappen’s maiden title in a stunning final lap and denying Lewis Hamilton his record eighth title. For Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff, the memory is vivid—not because of sadness, but because of anger over a race management decision he believes cost Hamilton a historic championship .
Reflecting on the incident, Wolff shared his thoughts on former race director Michael Masi‘s handling of the final laps, particularly the decision to let only some lapped cars split, setting up a final sprint where Verstappen overtook Hamilton for victory.
“I felt angry,” Wolff recalls. “Not depressed or sad, just angry that an individual could take away an eighth championship from the best driver in the world with a bad decision.”
Wolff’s feelings reflect the frustration of many in the Mercedes team, who believed Hamilton was moments away from a historic achievement, only to see that swept away by a decision that ultimately cost Masi his role. For Wolff, the feeling of injustice persists. Yet he puts the loss into perspective: “There are dictators in the world and politicians who cause so much pain. Losing the eighth title is not comparable.”
Hamilton’s reaction was a powerful moment in the F1 community, blending visible disappointment with the resilience that has defined his career. Wolff added that, despite the shock, Hamilton managed to process his emotions quickly and was back in a good frame of mind within days.
“It still stays with us because of the injustice that happened that day,” Wolff admitted. Still, he highlights Hamilton’s strength, acknowledging that while the incident may still hurt, it’s a chapter they’ve worked on to turn the page.
Although Hamilton’s near miss with history remains a sore point for the driver, his fans and Mercedes, Wolff’s thoughts reveal a team focused on the future while always remembering the importance of fairness and resilience in racing.
