McLaren would never have become F1 champions without rule change that Toto Wolff opposed

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff indicated that Formula 1's budget cap was essential for leveling the playing field, admitting he originally opposed the rule. Speaking on the Cheeky Pint YouTube channel, Wolff explained that Mercedes previously possessed the financial might to outspend midfield rivals like McLaren and Williams, with their primary competition restricted to Ferrari and Red Bull.

Wolff revealed that former F1 CEO Chase Carey insisted on introducing the cost cap to protect teams from excessive financial self-destruction. The article notes that the regulations helped facilitate McLaren's resurgence into championship contention, alongside the leadership efforts of McLaren figures Andrea Stella and Zak Brown.