Lewis Hamilton and Toto Wolff’s friendship started with their Mercedes entry. The duo joined the Silver Arrows together in 2013. While one was an executive and the other a driver, the passion for Formula 1 was the common point. As a result, the duo propelled the German Marqu to unparalleled success. The team was unbeatable in the hybrid era, with Hamilton clinching six world titles. This also strengthened the friendship between Wolff and Hamilton, as their bond was beyond the paddock.
However, the friendship was on the line when the Briton signed a deal with Ferrari, ending his Mercedes stint. Surprisingly, Wolff has addressed all the doubts, wishing the 39-year-old racer success with the Italian constructors. Recently, he shed light on the post-Hamilton Mercedes era and expects a new dawn.
Mercedes Chief Hopeful For A New Dawn As Hamilton Set To Join Ferrari
The astute Mercedes Boss, Toto Wolff, recently shared his thoughts about the post-Hamilton era during an interaction with Formula.Hu. Wolff lauded Hamilton’s racing abilities, claiming him to be a racing ‘Icon.’ He further accepted the team, and the F1 sport gets more media coverage because of teh Briton’s stardom. The Autrian executive concluded by reflecting upon the ‘new era’ for Mercedes with two fresh faces in the driver’s seat. Although he accepts that the future remains a mystery, expressing cautious optimism. However, the team’s driver lineup would undergo a massive overhaul after Hamilton’s departure. While plenty of options are available to replace the seven-time world champion, the Silver Arrows have groomed an Italian prodigy to take up the mantle. Kimi Antonelli, the young F2 sensation, is all set to be the face of Mercedes for the upcoming seasons. Albeit the youngster lacks experience in F1, his knack for racing and composure makes him a perfect fit.
On the other hand, George Russell will lead the team while young Antonelli discovers his mojo. The Briton has expressed enthusiasm for the 2025 season and is ready to lead the Brackley-based outfit. Moreover, Russell has been a tough competitor for Hamilton, outsourcing him in the ongoing season. The 26-year-old racer won the Austrian GP, ending the drought for the Silver Arrows. However, his competitive zeal could be a problem for young Antonelli. It could result in a tough intra-team battle, potentially positively impacting the team’s result.
Toto Wolff Accidentally Confirms Kimi Antonelli’s Mercedes Entry
Although reports confirm that the Italian protégé is set to join Mercedes, an official announcement is still pending. However, Toto Wolff accidentally confirmed Antonelli’s place for 2025. During a media interaction, the Mercedes chief discussed the team’s future. Subsequently, he said both the drivers will have full support for the team. Adding to this statement, he hoped everything would go well for ‘George and Kimi.’ Thus, it was an unofficial confirmation by Wolff that Kimi will certainly partner with Russell in 2025.