Synopsis
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff expressed deep emotions upon seeing Lewis Hamilton in Ferrari colors for the first time, likening it to witnessing an ex-partner move on. Hamilton's shift to Ferrari follows 12 successful years with Mercedes, marking a significant transition in his illustrious career.Key Takeaways
- Toto Wolff shares emotional response to Hamilton's Ferrari debut.
- Hamilton poses in iconic Ferrari red overalls.
- Wolff expresses admiration for Hamilton's introduction.
- Andrea Kimi Antonelli is set to join Mercedes in 2025.
- Mercedes aims for a strong comeback after a challenging season.
New Delhi, Jan 30 (NationPress) Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has revealed that witnessing Lewis Hamilton donning Ferrari red for the first time was a deeply emotional experience, comparing it to seeing an ex-partner move forward. Following 12 groundbreaking years with Mercedes, Hamilton’s much-anticipated transition to Ferrari became real last week when the initial official images of him at the Maranello headquarters were unveiled.
Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, appeared in Ferrari’s iconic red overalls and conducted his first official Ferrari photocall before taking the wheel of one of their cars. The photos quickly gained immense popularity, representing the start of a new chapter for both Hamilton and the sport.
During the Autosport Awards, Wolff admitted that seeing Hamilton in Ferrari colors triggered strong feelings. "It felt like encountering an ex with someone new. It’s akin to an amicable divorce; everything is fine until you see your former partner with a new companion!" Wolff was quoted by Sky Sports.
Despite the emotional significance, Wolff expressed his respect for how Hamilton’s Ferrari introduction was carried out. "However, I’m genuinely pleased for him, and I conveyed to him that those images were iconic. It was exceptionally well-curated, and it’s no surprise with Lewis," he added.
As Hamilton embarks on his Ferrari adventure, Mercedes is focusing on the future, placing their trust in the 18-year-old Italian star Andrea Kimi Antonelli. The rookie, who recently passed his driving test, is set to join George Russell in the 2025 season.
Wolff believes Antonelli is well-prepared for the challenge. "He’s been with the team and integrated for quite a while. We’ve known him since he was 11, and in that regard, he’s been ready. He’s eager to start," stated Wolff.
Mercedes plans to unveil their new W16 car on February 24, just one day before its shakedown in Bahrain and two days prior to pre-season testing. The Silver Arrows aim to recover after an inconsistent 2024 season, where they finished fourth in the constructors’ championship with just four victories.
Reflecting on the past season, Wolff acknowledged the challenges Mercedes faced with the W15. "We encountered numerous challenges last year, particularly at the start," he confessed. "Like all teams, we experienced highs and lows; we had some very dominant performances and then others that were less impressive."
With Antonelli stepping up, Russell leading the way, and a new car concept in the works, Mercedes is resolute about making a robust comeback. "Ultimately, when the flag drops, we’ll know where we stand in qualifying in Melbourne," Wolff concluded.
