Just in:Toto Wolff to Miss Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, Mercedes Confirm Re…read more
Toto Wolff to Miss Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, Mercedes Confirm Re…read more
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff will not be present at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix in Imola this weekend, as he takes time away from the Formula 1 paddock for a personal family event. The Austrian has opted to skip the race to attend the graduation ceremony of his eldest son, Benedict, in the United States.
This marks the second time Wolff has missed a Grand Prix in the 2025 season, having also been absent from the Japanese Grand Prix earlier in the year due to a pre-arranged schedule. Despite his absence, Mercedes has confirmed that team operations will continue seamlessly, with Chief Communications Officer Bradley Lord stepping in to handle Wolff’s responsibilities at the race. Lord had previously filled this role in Suzuka during Wolff’s earlier absence and will again serve as the temporary figurehead for the Silver Arrows garage.
Wolff’s temporary departure coincides with a significant milestone for rising star Kimi Antonelli, who will be racing in front of his home crowd for the first time in Formula 1. The 18-year-old Italian driver replaced Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes ahead of the 2025 season. While there were initial concerns about Antonelli’s inexperience, he has quickly proven his potential and is delivering results that defy expectations.
Antonelli currently sits sixth in the drivers’ standings, ahead of his predecessor Hamilton, who dropped to seventh. His mature driving style and consistent performances have earned praise from both fans and experts alike. Antonelli’s adaptability and poise in high-pressure situations have made him one of the standout rookies of the season.
Mercedes comes into the Imola weekend riding a wave of strong form, following a successful showing at the Miami Grand Prix. Antonelli secured his maiden Formula 1 pole position in Miami, topping the charts in qualifying for the sprint race. Meanwhile, teammate George Russell continued his strong campaign with another impressive performance, earning his fourth podium finish in just six races this season.
The Brackley-based team has been a surprise contender so far in 2025, defying pre-season expectations with their improved pace and reliability. They currently hold second place in the constructors’ championship, nestled between dominant leaders McLaren and a resurgent Red Bull team. Mercedes’ consistency and strong results have kept them firmly in the mix for both the drivers’ and constructors’ titles, despite fierce competition.
While Wolff’s absence will be felt in the Mercedes garage, the team is well-prepared to manage the weekend without him. The focus will now shift to continuing their positive momentum, especially with Antonelli aiming to impress in front of a passionate Italian crowd. With both drivers showing strong form, and the team performing cohesively under Lord’s temporary leadership, Mercedes will look to build on their impressive start to the season and push for more success at Imola.
