Just In: Toto Wolff has ruthlessly honest wish for Lewis Hamilton as Mercedes exit nears…read more
Toto Wolff has ruthlessly honest wish for Lewis Hamilton as Mercedes exit nears…read more
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff expressed a mix of humor and sincerity as Lewis Hamilton’s departure from the team approaches. Wolff joked that he hopes Hamilton gets a “not-so-fast car” when he moves to Ferrari next season, marking the end of their 13-year collaboration.
Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, has just three races left with the Silver Arrows before his highly anticipated switch to Ferrari for the 2025 season. The Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend began promisingly for the British driver, who dominated both FP1 and FP2, showcasing Mercedes’ adaptability to the slippery track conditions. However, Wolff made it clear that he isn’t hoping for such success for Hamilton once he joins the Scuderia.
Speaking during the team principals’ press conference, Wolff reflected on the atmosphere within the Mercedes camp as Hamilton’s departure draws nearer. “Right now, it feels like any other race weekend. We’re still focused on the season, and long-term development discussions haven’t been a priority in recent months,” he explained. “There’s no overwhelming emotion just yet, but as we get closer to Abu Dhabi, the final race, I’m sure it will hit harder. It’s been a remarkable partnership for such a long time.”
Wolff emphasized that while Hamilton’s move to Ferrari means losing him as a driver, his presence on the grid will remain a constant. “Lewis isn’t disappearing. He’ll still be competing, just in red instead of silver. It’s a significant change, but it’s one we’ve prepared for. We’re not losing the person; we’re just parting ways as a team,” he said.
The Mercedes boss also expressed excitement for the team’s future, which will feature a youthful driver lineup comprising 18-year-old rookie talent and a more experienced 27-year-old racer. “This new chapter for Mercedes is exhilarating. We’re entering a phase of growth and development with a fresh lineup,” Wolff noted.
Closing with a mix of well-wishes and lighthearted banter, Wolff added, “We wish Lewis all the best and hope he finds happiness at Ferrari. Maybe a car that’s not so fast would be nice for us. But ultimately, it was his decision, and we respect it.”
As the season winds down, the end of Hamilton’s era at Mercedes signifies both the conclusion of a historic partnership and the beginning of new opportunities for both parties.
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