Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff has recently opened up about his relationship with former driver Lewis Hamilton, who left the team after years of winning and success. In an exclusive interview, Wolff shared his thoughts on their partnership and the impact Hamilton had on the team during his time with Mercedes.
Wolff and Hamilton’s relationship goes back to 2013 when the British driver joined Mercedes from McLaren. Together, they have achieved unprecedented success, winning six consecutive World Championships and dominating the Formula One circuit. However, their partnership came to an end when Hamilton announced his departure from Mercedes at the end of the 2021 season.
Despite the news, Wolff remains positive and grateful for the time he spent working with Hamilton. He described their relationship as a “special bond” and praised Hamilton for his dedication and talent. “Lewis is an exceptional driver, and it has been an honor to work with him. He has brought so much to the team, not just with his driving skills but also with his leadership and determination,” Wolff said.
Wolff also acknowledged the challenges they faced together, especially during the 2020 season, which was heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. “Last year was tough for everyone, and Lewis played a crucial role in keeping the team motivated and focused. He showed great resilience and determination, which is a testament to his character,” he added.
The Mercedes team boss also spoke about the mutual respect and trust between him and Hamilton. He revealed that they had a strong working relationship, and their communication was always open and honest. “We have always been transparent with each other, and that is why our partnership has been so successful. We trust each other, and that is essential in any team dynamic,” Wolff explained.
When asked about Hamilton’s decision to leave Mercedes, Wolff expressed his understanding and support. He believes that Hamilton has the right to make his own choices and that he has earned the right to do so. “Lewis has been with us for eight years, and he has achieved everything he set out to do. He has the right to explore new challenges and opportunities, and we respect that,” Wolff stated.
Despite Hamilton’s departure, Wolff remains optimistic about the future of Mercedes. He believes that the team has a strong foundation and is well-equipped to face any challenges that come their way. “We have a fantastic team, and we will continue to push for success. We have a new driver joining us next season, and we are excited to see what he can bring to the team,” he said, referring to George Russell, who will be Hamilton’s replacement at Mercedes.
Wolff also expressed his gratitude towards Hamilton for his contribution to the team and wished him all the best for his future endeavors. “Lewis will always be a part of the Mercedes family, and we will always be grateful for what he has done for us. We wish him all the best, and we know he will continue to achieve great things,” he concluded.
In conclusion, Toto Wolff’s words reflect the strong bond and mutual respect between him and Lewis Hamilton. Their partnership may have come to an end, but their achievements and memories will always be cherished. As Mercedes looks towards the future, they will undoubtedly miss Hamilton’s presence, but they are confident in their ability to continue their winning streak. Hamilton’s departure marks the end of an era, but it also opens up new opportunities for both him and Mercedes. The Formula One world will be watching closely to see what the future holds for these two exceptional individuals.
