Mercedes boss Toto Wolff was heard complaining about the Haas driver over the radio to F1 race director Michael Masi during the Spanish Grand Prix, fuelling a conspiracy that Mazepin is being painted as the sport's biggest villain. "Michael, blue flags," Wolff was heard saying as he fretted over Lewis Hamilton's lead, worrying whether his star driver would be held up behind a slow Haas. Masi said he "rarely" hears from Wolff during a race, and added the surprise transmission was all part of a pre-arranged plan. Romain Grosjean and Kevin Magnussen were punted, in favour of Mick Schumacher — son of F1 legend Michael — and Mazepin. There were rumours from the outset Mazepin was being chosen for his family's healthy bank balance, rather than his talent behind the wheel.

Source: New Zealand Herald May 11, 2021 04:41 UTC