Toto Wolff believes the time was right for Lewis Hamilton to leave Mercedes, as it prepares to “reinvent” itself in 2025.
After 12 seasons, 84 wins and six drivers’ titles, Hamilton left at the end of 2024 to join Ferrari, bringing to a close the most successful driver-team partnership in F1 history.
In his final season, he ended his long win drought stretching back to 2021 with an emotional victory in the British GP, adding another in Belgium before signing off with a fourth place in Abu Dhabi, although he did endure tricky times towards the end of the campaign, especially with a dreadful weekend in Brazil.
Reflecting on Hamilton’s decision to quit, Wolff felt the timing was “right” for both parties to move onto pastures new, with Kimi Antonelli being his replacement.
“It was right for both of us,” Wolff told Sky Sports.
“I think when you see Lewis in his first appearances at Ferrari, this picture in front of Enzo Ferrari’s house, it’s iconic. Lewis with his sense of style, and I’ve told him.
“At the same time, we are embarking on a different route, trying to reinvent ourselves with a young driver – in addition to George [Russell] who isn’t mentioned enough.
“We have a senior, accomplished driver that has won races, and this new kid coming up.
“I think it was a refresh for both of us.”
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No Mercedes ‘hangover’
Speaking shortly after Mercedes unveiled its brand-new deal with sportswear giant Adidas, Wolff insisted that Mercedes could still attract big-name sponsors despite the loss of Hamilton.
“It doesn’t get much better (than Adidas) in terms of iconic brands in the field of sport,” he said.
“It’s a testament to the trust that this team has going forward.
“When I discussed Lewis going and Kimi coming with the CEO, he said: ‘This is so exciting. Let’s go on the next generation!’
“This is is how we feel in the team. We have a strong vibe with the partners that are with us and want to come to the team, so we don’t feel any hangover.”
