Toto Wolff Calls Lewis Hamilton ‘Very Important’ to Mercedes

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has made a surprising statement, emphasizing that Lewis Hamilton remains “very important” to the team despite his move to Ferrari in 2025. Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, Wolff praised Hamilton’s support for his replacement, Kimi Antonelli, and highlighted Hamilton’s champion mentality amid struggles at Ferrari. This article explores Wolff’s remarks and Hamilton’s context. Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Hamilton’s ties with Mercedes began in his junior career, continued through his McLaren days with Mercedes engines, and culminated in six of his seven world titles with the works team from 2013. On February 1, 2024, he shocked F1 by announcing his move to Ferrari for 2025. Despite this, Wolff affirmed, “Lewis remains very important to us. He was a cornerstone of our team and will always be part of the Mercedes family.”

Wolff also highlighted their personal bond. “My friendship with Lewis is unchanged. We talk often,” he said. Hamilton has supported Antonelli, the 18-year-old who replaced him at Mercedes. Antonelli started 2025 strongly with a third-place finish in Canada but has since scored only one point in seven races. “Champions recognize champions,” Wolff noted, commending Hamilton’s encouragement.

Hamilton has faced significant challenges at Ferrari in 2025. After a sprint race win in China, he has yet to secure a grand prix podium, trailing teammate Charles Leclerc by 42 points, with Leclerc achieving five podiums. At the Hungarian Grand Prix, Hamilton finished P12 after a poor qualifying, calling himself “useless” and suggesting Ferrari find another driver.

Wolff understands Hamilton’s frustration. “Ferrari is the most prestigious team, but a huge challenge for Lewis,” he said. He praised Hamilton’s honesty. “When he faces tough times, he takes responsibility, not blaming the team. That’s a trait of the greats,” Wolff added. He believes Hamilton will regain his motivation soon.

Despite his own struggles, Hamilton has backed Antonelli, who faces challenges in his rookie F1 season. Wolff isn’t surprised by this support. “Lewis understands Kimi’s challenges,” he said. Promoted from Formula 2, Antonelli showed promise with a Canadian podium but has faltered in Europe. Wolff is confident Antonelli will grow, especially with guidance from Hamilton and George Russell, now Mercedes’ lead driver.

With 10 races left in 2025, Hamilton aims to improve at Ferrari, starting at Zandvoort. Wolff is optimistic about Hamilton’s resurgence, while Mercedes builds around Russell and Antonelli. McLaren’s dominance and Lando Norris’ surprise in Hungary signal fierce competition. What’s your view on Wolff’s comments and Hamilton’s Ferrari journey? Comment below!