Mercedes boss Toto Wolff says the team cannot be swayed by “dangerous” assumptions amid suggestions that the upcoming Belgian Grand Prix should play to the strengths of its W08.
Mercedes has typically held the upper hand over Ferrari at venues where aerodynamic efficiency is prioritised, most prominently at Silverstone, where Lewis Hamilton led a 1-2, with its Italian rivals off the pace.
The characteristics of Spa-Francorchamps – with long straights and fast, sweeping corners – have led to suggestions that Mercedes should perform strongly this weekend.
Wolff, though, has stressed that Mercedes must remain grounded if it is to extend its lead over Ferrari in the standings.
“From what we have seen in the first half of the season, the competitive balance will swing one way and another from circuit to circuit,” Wolff commented.
“On paper, people will assume that Spa should suit our car because it is a circuit where aerodynamic efficiency is extremely important.
“But assumptions are dangerous – we have seen too many times already this season that the form book can be rewritten from one weekend to the next.
“So we will be making no assumptions; we have to tick off the items on our work list and make sure we do the best job to maximise our potential points score.”
Wolff also noted the increasing risk posed by Red Bull, which has gradually made progress after languishing behind the Mercedes/Ferrari fight during the early stages of the campaign.
“Red Bull will be a threat if they can build on the performance they showed in Hungary,” Wolff commented.
“So we need to keep our heads down, stay humble regarding our strengths, diligent about our weaknesses and take the season weekend by weekend.”
Mercedes, which has won six of this year’s 11 Grands Prix, holds a 39-point advantage over Ferrari in the Constructors’ Championship.
