Toto Wolff recently emphasized that Lewis Hamilton continues to be a vital presence for the Mercedes team even after the F1 champion left last year. Hamilton, who won six world championships and enjoyed over a decade of triumphs with Mercedes, had moved on to pursue his lifelong ambition of racing for Ferrari.
However, half a year into his stint with Ferrari, Hamilton’s dream seems to have lost momentum, prompting speculation about a possible return to Mercedes. Currently, Italian rookie Kimi Antonelli has taken Hamilton’s seat at Mercedes, after struggling to find consistent form with the team.
Wolff Comments on the Relationship Between Hamilton and Antonelli
In recent weeks, Lewis Hamilton has shown support for Antonelli amid the young driver’s recent difficulties, which included disappointing qualifying results at Spa and Hungary. When interviewed by La Gazzetta dello Sport, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff was asked about the surprising closeness between Hamilton and Antonelli.
“No, I think champions recognise other champions,”
Wolff stated.
“And Lewis remains very important to us. He was a pillar of our team and will always be part of the Mercedes family, even though he now drives for Ferrari.”
“My friendship with Lewis remains unchanged. We talk often, and I think he understands the challenges Kimi faces.”
Support and Challenges for Both Hamilton and Antonelli This Season
Hamilton has been a source of encouragement for Antonelli during his performance issues, including a double Q1 exit at the Belgian Grand Prix and a Q2 elimination in Hungary. After Antonelli’s tough day at Spa, Hamilton reportedly comforted the young driver and later publicly praised his achievements so far in Formula 1.
Meanwhile, Hamilton himself has endured a difficult season at Ferrari. His recent poor results, such as failing to score any points in Hungary, culminated with the driver suggesting that the team might consider replacing him.
Despite Ferrari’s struggles this year, Wolff believes that Hamilton still has the talent to bounce back strongly.
“Maybe it’s linked to driving style. He shouldn’t go anywhere next year. Brand new cars, completely different to drive, new power units that need an intelligent way of managing the energy,”
Wolff remarked after the Hungarian GP.
“That’s absolutely on for Lewis and I hope he stays on for many more years. Certainly, next year is going to be an important one.”
Looking Ahead to Hamilton’s Prospects and Impact on Mercedes
Hamilton’s potential return to Mercedes remains an open question, fueled by Wolff’s acknowledgment of the driver’s “unfinished business” with the team. Given the changes scheduled in the 2026 Formula 1 season, including new car designs and power unit regulations, there could be fresh opportunities for Hamilton to demonstrate his skills. Wolff’s ongoing friendship and communication with Hamilton underline that the champion is still regarded as a key figure within the Mercedes organization, even as the partnership enters a new phase.
