Mercedes boss Toto Wolff says his team must remain “vigilant” at this weekend’s German Grand Prix, with hot weather set to affect the event.
Mercedes is set for a weekend of commemorations at its home grand prix – for which it will act as title sponsor – as it is marking 125 years of involvement in motorsport.
It is also marking its 200th race start as a manufacturer team in Formula 1.
Mercedes holds a substantial advantage in both Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championship, with its only defeat this year coming at the Austrian Grand Prix.
Mercedes accepted that it was stifled by the hot weather at the Red Bull Ring, having to open the W10’s bodywork, later revealing small radiators accentuated its predicament.
Much of Western Europe is poised for another band of exceptionally hot weather through the middle of this week, with temperatures likely to hit 40Ëšc at Hockenheim on Thursday.
While conditions are forecast to cool to around 30Ëšc for Saturday and Sunday, Wolff commented: “The weather forecast predicts high temperatures.
“They were extremely challenging for us in Austria, so we must stay vigilant.
“Like Spielberg, Hockenheim is also a relatively short circuit, which will close the gaps between different teams. We will stay humble and work hard to achieve the best possible result.
“The British Grand Prix was a spectacular race and a great showcase for our sport. It was great to see our drivers battle on track in the opening stint; they fought hard but always fair.
“And it was good to bounce back from the poor performance in Austria with a strong one-two finish.”
Mercedes has claimed all three victories at Hockenheim in the hybrid era.
