Toto Wolff and Lewis Hamilton joined Mercedes together in 2013. The principal-racer duo has propelled the Silver Arrows to the heights of domination. The team was unstoppable during 2014-2021, winning almost every world title. While Hamilton won six world titles, Mercedes clinched eight Constructors Cups. However, with the Briton signing the Ferrari contract, the partnership will end in 2025.
Since the final race of 2021, Mercedes has struggled with endless technical issues. Even th technical head, James Allison, compared the W15 with a small duvet, as it fails to counter all the issues. The constant slump has hampered Mercedes’s performance, turning it into a mid-filed team. Thus, amid mounting pressure, speculations were that Toto Wolff might draw curtains to his F1 career. As Mercedes’ struggles seem insurmountable, Wolff’s retirement could be on the horizon in 2024. The Austrian executive opened up about his F1 future.
“Not Going Anywhere,” Wolff Defiant To Fix Mercedes Issues
Toto Wolff stated that his perspective is focused on the long-term future of the team, with a vision set for the next 20 years. He emphasized that his goal is for Mercedes to continue fighting for championships and that when the time comes to change leadership, he would be open to the decision, regardless of the outcome. Wolff made it clear that his role is different from that of a coach or manager, as he is not focused on leaving a legacy or going out on a high note. Instead, he remains committed to the team and its success, with no intention of stepping away anytime soon. Wolff expressed hope that Mercedes will continue to win many more championships, but he doesn’t feel entitled to success, acknowledging the need for continued hard work and dedication.
The workload this season has been incredibly high, with a record 24 races in a year. Both drivers and team members dedicate long hours to meticulous preparation ahead of a race. The extended F1 season has become increasingly demanding, draining every ounce of energy from both teams and drivers. This was the reason why Toto Wolff was absent from the Brazilian GP. The Silver Arrows chief has chosen a few races to take a break.
Toto Wolff Expresses Cost Cap Concerns
After George Russell’s crash at the Circuit of the Americas and another incident during FP2 that caused a red flag, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff revealed the financial consequences these setbacks have had on the team’s budget. The crashes have significantly impacted the cost cap, forcing Mercedes to reassess its development approach. Consequently, the team will only introduce two upgrade packages, including new floor configurations, for the Brazilian Grand Prix, with further developments being restricted for the remainder of the season.
