Lewis Hamilton’s recent switch to Ferrari sparked significant discussion, particularly regarding its impact on his relationship with Toto Wolff, the team principal of Mercedes. Wolff revealed he was not informed directly by Hamilton about the move but instead learned through rumors circulating in the paddock, initially shared by Carlos Sainz Sr., the father of Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz.
Hamilton signed a multi-year contract with Ferrari earlier this year despite having one year remaining on his Mercedes deal. This move ended a 12-year partnership with Mercedes, where Hamilton secured six of his seven Formula 1 World Championships. The decision raised eyebrows across the F1 community, given its timing and the long-standing bond between the driver and the team.
When asked in a recent interview whether Hamilton’s negotiations with Ferrari had caused a breakdown in trust, Wolff dismissed the idea. He explained that Hamilton was under significant pressure during the offseason as Mercedes struggled to meet expectations. Wolff speculated that Hamilton’s decision likely came together quickly, leaving little time for open discussions.
Wolff said:
“I think when you need to set a standard for yourself, it was such a difficult situation for him. Our team wasn’t performing as we expected, and the opportunity with Ferrari probably arose very quickly. He didn’t have enough time to address it properly with Mercedes or with me. I don’t hold a grudge at all. If we could replay this, we might have handled it differently—but in those circumstances, it wasn’t easy for him.”
With Hamilton set to leave after the 2024 season, Wolff reflected on the end of their professional relationship following free practice sessions at the Las Vegas GP. While there were no overwhelming emotions yet, he anticipated that their final race together would be significant, marking the end of an era.
“There’s no overwhelming emotion now,” Wolff said, “but the last race together will be a big moment. It’s been a wonderful partnership for so long. That said, Lewis isn’t disappearing—he’ll be on the grid with Ferrari next year. We’re losing a driver but not the person, and we’ll move forward into a new chapter.”
Hamilton will partner with Charles Leclerc at Ferrari under team principal Fred Vasseur, his former boss during his Formula 2 days. He will replace Carlos Sainz, who is moving to Williams. With just two races left in the 2024 season, Hamilton’s departure marks a new beginning for both him and Mercedes.