Just In: Toto Wolff reveals Fernando Alonso phone call after Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari…read more

Toto Wolff reveals Fernando Alonso phone call after Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari…read more

Toto Wolff recently shared new details about the period leading up to Lewis Hamilton’s unexpected decision to leave Mercedes and join Ferrari. In January 2024, Wolff was informed of Hamilton’s plans, which created a period of uncertainty for the team. As rumors of Hamilton’s potential departure began to spread, numerous drivers expressed interest in filling his spot, including a surprising call from Fernando Alonso.

Wolff revealed that Alonso reached out to him once it became clear that Hamilton might switch teams. The Spanish driver, a long-time rival of Hamilton in Formula 1, was keen on the idea of joining Mercedes if Hamilton decided to leave. This phone call took place before Hamilton’s eventual announcement that he would join Ferrari, and Wolff noted that Alonso wasn’t the only driver who showed interest in the open seat at Mercedes.

The weeks leading up to Hamilton’s announcement were a time of tension and speculation within the Mercedes camp, with many drivers hoping to secure a seat in one of Formula 1’s top teams. Despite the influx of inquiries from other drivers, Wolff emphasized that the decision ultimately rested with Hamilton. The British driver broke the news to Wolff during a breakfast meeting at Wolff’s home in Austria, where he confirmed his decision to leave Mercedes for Ferrari. This revelation shocked the F1 world and marked the beginning of a new era for both Hamilton and the team.

Hamilton’s move to Ferrari, officially announced on February 1, 2024, has left Mercedes needing to find a new star driver. Although Alonso’s interest and other drivers’ inquiries were considered, Wolff still faces the challenge of selecting the best replacement for Hamilton. The departure of such a legendary driver is a significant shift for Mercedes and the sport as a whole, and all eyes are now on the future of the team and who will step into Hamilton’s shoes for the upcoming season.