Toto Wolff sends a message to Lewis Hamilton after his Ferrari debut
Toto Wolff reveals the message he sent to Lewis Hamilton after seeing the former Mercedes driver at Ferrari for the first time.
The boss of Mercedes, Toto Wolff, revealed that he sent a message to Lewis Hamilton shortly after seeing the first photos of his former driver at Ferrari, praising the seven-time world champion for his iconic appearance.
A highly anticipated start at Ferrari
Lewis Hamilton joined Ferrari last week to begin an intensive preparation program before the season, including factory visits, staff presentations, simulator work, and runs with old single-seaters.
On his first day, the Briton posted an update on his social media, including a photo of himself posing in front of the Ferrari buildings in a black suit, alongside a Ferrari F40.
This is Lewis Hamilton’s first team change since 2013, when he left McLaren to join Mercedes, where he has won six drivers’ titles and contributed to eight constructors’ championships with the Silver Arrows.
Speaking to Sky Sports F1 at the Autosport Awards in London this week, Toto Wolff shared his reaction to Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari and how he perceives the situation. “It’s a bit like an amicable breakup, everything is fine, then you see your ex with a new partner for the first time!” joked the Mercedes boss with a smile.
« But I am really happy for him, and I told him those photos were iconic. It was so well staged, and with Lewis, it’s no surprise! »
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Kimi Antonelli present
The replacement for Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes, the young Italian Kimi Antonelli, was also present at the ceremony and spoke about taking the place of the 40-year-old Briton.
« It’s a bit strange, because it’s quite paradoxical: an Italian driver joining Mercedes and a British driver going to Ferrari! », said Kimi Antonelli.
« I am super happy with the opportunity I have. There is a lot of enthusiasm around me as the new Italian on the grid. And of course, seeing a figure like Lewis joining Ferrari is something incredible. I think there will be a lot of excitement at the Italian Grand Prix! »
As for Mercedes’ prospects in this new era without Lewis Hamilton, Toto Wolff remained discreet before the presentation of the new car next month at the O2 Arena in London and the testing in Bahrain. “We racked our brains a lot last year, especially at the beginning,” he commented.
« Like all other teams, we have experienced ups and downs. We had very dominant performances in Vegas, then other races where things didn’t go well at all. »
« But in the end, when the flag falls, we will see in qualifying in Melbourne where we really stand », he concludes.
