F1: Mercedes has ‘emerged stronger’ - Wolff

Toto Wolff believes the challenges faced by Mercedes in 2016 have ensured the team "emerged stronger" from the past season.

Reliability issues in the early races put Lewis Hamilton on the back foot in the drivers' championship before he and Nico Rosberg collided at the Spanish Grand Prix, taking both drivers out of the race. Hamilton is understood to have questioned his future at that stage, but bounced back to take the championship lead by the summer break despite further contact with his teammate in Canada and Austria.

However, Hamilton suffered more misfortune in Malaysia as he retired from the lead, and Rosberg went on to take full advantage and win a maiden drivers' title before retiring from F1. With Mercedes rebuilding bridges with one driver and looking to replace the other, Wolff admits it has been a tough year but says the team is stronger for it.

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"2016 has been a remarkable year," Wolff said, addressing the team ahead of its Christmas break. "Our team has broken records in the history books; we have pursued our goals with passion and determination; and we were tested at each turn by unexpected challenges.

"Nico was crowned champion and then departed the stage. Lewis needed strength of character to handle defeat with composure and dignity. We celebrated our success and we learned from our mistakes. Through all these moments, we have emerged stronger and more capable to face together the road ahead.

"Our position in the spotlight puts every decision taken and every word spoken under an intense microscope. They are debated passionately among our fans and interpreted by the media. But there has been enough talking, now. This is the period for calm and considered reflection; to savor our achievements and prepare for the next campaign.

"As we move forward, we will continue to be guided above all by the best interests of our team. This philosophy is bigger than any one season or any one person. It has forged a group that is humble in victory and gracious in defeat; hungry for challenge and resilient under pressure; never satisfied with the status quo, always seeking to improve.

"Our values have been the foundation stones of three world championships. And there will be no compromise as we begin our quest for a fourth in 2017.

"It is now time for some days away from the world of racing, to be enjoyed among family and friends. To recharge the batteries for the bigger challenges ahead.

"We will tackle new rules, welcome a new race driver and take on even stronger rivals. It will test our team's character, strength and capability. Bring it on!"

Mercedes has previously confirmed it will not make any announcements regarding next year's driver line-up before January 3 when the team returns to work.