The ongoing tension between Mercedes and Red Bull reached new heights ahead of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, with Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff labeling Christian Horner a "yapping little terrier" in response to recent comments about George Russell.

The conflict stems from the Qatar Grand Prix incident where Max Verstappen received a penalty, which Horner attributed to "hysterics from George." This followed Verstappen's statement about losing respect for Russell due to his approach in the stewards' room.

Russell later revealed that Verstappen had allegedly threatened to crash into him intentionally. During a media session in Abu Dhabi, Wolff unexpectedly intervened, criticizing Horner's leadership style and his role in enabling Verstappen's behavior.

"As a team principal, you need to be a sparring partner for your drivers and explain that things can be more nuanced," Wolff stated. He emphasized the importance of considering multiple perspectives rather than viewing situations as absolutely right or wrong.

Wolff particularly took issue with Horner's characterization of Russell as "hysteric," stating, "If the other team principal calls George hysteric, this is where he crosses a line for me." While maintaining that the conflict between Verstappen and Russell should remain between the drivers, Wolff defended his decision to address Horner's comments directly.

The Mercedes team principal concluded by questioning Horner's right to comment on Russell's state of mind, marking another chapter in the ongoing rivalry between the two leading Formula 1 teams.

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