Mercedes team chief Niki Lauda on Monday acted to defuse the ‘star wars’ rivalry between his drivers and reintroduce cordiality and good manners between them before next month’s Canadian Grand Prix.

In the wake of Nico Rosberg’s triumph ahead of Lewis Hamilton in the Monaco Grand Prix, Lauda said he and Mercedes were not prepared to tolerate the sullen behaviour that was seen on the podium and in the aftermath of the race.

Lauda, who acts as the team’s non-executive chairman, said the pair had overstepped the mark by refusing to behave in a sporting manner and by not speaking.

“I spoke to the drivers before the race and it is not finished,” said Lauda. “I understand all the comments and I have to wait two or three days, but before it goes to Canada it will be solved. I will speak to them like I always do.”