Toto Wolff, between frustration and lucidity: « It’s heartbreaking not to be in Imola »
Absent from the Imola Grand Prix for personal reasons, Toto Wolff spoke in Monaco on Friday about his decision, Mercedes' current situation and his ambitions for the rest of the season. His speech was frank and measured, blending regret with a determination to remain combative.
From the opening of the conference, Toto Wolff did not dodge the question weighing on him: his absence at Imola, a first in several years. “Not being at Imola is heartbreaking,” he confided. “It’s a circuit I love, one of the classics, and not being able to experience this weekend alongside the team is tough.”
Although he followed the tests and the race from a distance, Wolff acknowledges that it replaced nothing. Technology helps, but it’s not the same as being in the paddock, in direct contact with the team.
A Mercedes always under reconstruction
On the sporting front, the Mercedes boss acknowledged that the W15 is still far from its ideal form. « We have made progress, but it’s not enough. » He emphasized the difficulty of catching up with Red Bull and Ferrari: « Here in Monaco, they are very strong, especially in slow corners and traction. »
He recalled the continuous efforts of the team: « We have worked on several micro-adjustments, suspension, aerodynamics, the engine… We are trying to improve every detail, but the basic concept remains difficult to master. »
The mindset for Monaco
For this Monegasque weekend, the strategy is clear: limit the damage and seize every opportunity. What I want to see is a fierce Lewis Hamilton, who isn’t afraid to take risks. And a clever George Russell, capable of disrupting others’ plans.
Caution remains essential, as the two rival teams have a significant advantage: « We know that Ferrari and Red Bull are out of reach here, but we still want to be in the fight. »
Looking towards the future
Wolff finally discussed the rest of the season and the transition to 2026, with the new engine regulations. « Montreal will be important, we will have a more complete package there. That’s where we hope to make a significant step. »
Despite the difficult situation, the Austrian leader displays a confident humility: « I am used to winning, and it’s frustrating not to be ahead. But we must accept reality, learn from our mistakes, and be smarter. »
A clear message: the 2025 Mercedes is still under construction, but Wolff and his team remain determined.
Toto Wolff’s frankness reflects a clear awareness within Mercedes: the era of undisputed domination is over. This clarity, mixed with a certain form of frustration, drives the team to rethink its methods and adopt a more subtle strategy against its opponents. Wolff’s absence in Imola also symbolizes this challenging transition phase, where emotion and remote management coexist with a fierce desire to remain competitive.
The public self-criticism highlights the internal demand within the Mercedes clan, where every detail matters and the pressure to return to the top is constant. This stance, both humble and determined, aims to reassure partners, drivers, and supporters by showing that even in adversity, the battle continues without compromise.
