Toto Wolff stated that he does not share the skeptical views regarding Lewis Hamilton’s potential transfer to Ferrari. According to the Mercedes CEO, the belief that Hamilton may struggle to adapt to the Ferrari environment is incorrect.
After spending 12 years at Mercedes, Hamilton will leave the team at the end of this season to partner with Charles Leclerc at Ferrari. This will be Hamilton’s first race with a team outside the UK since beginning his Formula 1 career with McLaren in 2007.
Some believe that adapting to the completely different culture at Maranello could be a challenging experience for Hamilton. However, Wolff, who has been a strong supporter of Hamilton, is confident that the seven-time world champion will quickly embrace the situation.
WOLFF: “I THINK MANY PEOPLE THINK THIS WILL BE REALLY HARD”
Wolff remarked, “I think many people believe this will be really tough. But when we say it will be difficult, it often turns out to be the opposite. Ferrari is a great team with great people, and there’s a lot of emotion and passion, which puts them under significant pressure. However, I believe they will find a way to work together.”
Earlier this year, Hamilton mentioned that he ignored doubters regarding his decision, which he believed was right for him. He stated, “There hasn’t been a moment where I’ve questioned this decision, and I’m not influenced by other people’s opinions. Even today, there are still people who continue to spout nonsense, and this will persist throughout the rest of the year. I will do what I’ve always done. Only you know what’s right for you, and this will be an exciting process for me.”
THE IMPACT OF YOUNG DRIVER ANTONELLI ON THE TEAM
Wolff expressed that the emotional bond with Hamilton will likely last forever, but he is also excited about the prospect of young Italian driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli joining the team in place of the Briton.
Wolff continued, “I think we had a fantastic 12 years with Lewis. He will always be part of the family. However, as a competitor, when we try to outpace him next year, Kimi joining George will undoubtedly bring speed, youth, and innovation. You can feel a certain smile in the team with an 18-year-old in the car.”
He added, “There will also be moments where Lewis’s experience benefits the team. Kimi will go through a tough learning process, but this was definitely the right choice for the team, and there wasn’t anyone else who could do it differently.”
