Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff recently spoke about the strong connection between Lewis Hamilton and rising talent Andrea Kimi Antonelli, praising Hamilton’s support during difficult moments. The discussion came after Antonelli struggled in qualifying at the Belgian Grand Prix, where the 18-year-old was eliminated in Q1 and appeared visibly upset.
Following qualifying, Hamilton visited the Mercedes motorhome to speak with Antonelli, offering words of encouragement in light of the young driver’s challenging start to his Formula 3 season. Despite Antonelli failing to score points in six of his seven races by the Spa event, Hamilton publicly acknowledged his successor’s impressive handling of the pressure associated with such an early step up in competition.
In an interview with Gazzetta, Wolff described the growing camaraderie between Hamilton and Antonelli, explaining that it was no surprise that two champions would connect easily:
“No, I think champions recognize other champions. And then Lewis remains very important for us, he has been a pillar of our team and will always be part of the Mercedes family, even if he now drives for Ferrari. My friendship with Lewis has remained unchanged. We talk a lot, and I think he understands the challenges Kimi faces.”
Wolff reflected on his 12-year working relationship with Hamilton and emphasized that their bond has stayed strong despite Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari. This ongoing friendship has allowed Wolff to remain involved in supporting Hamilton’s new journey while also encouraging emerging talent like Antonelli.
Toto Wolff Offers Steadfast Backing to Lewis Hamilton During Ferrari Struggles
Lewis Hamilton’s recent performance at the Hungarian Grand Prix revealed a period of difficulty for the seven-time world champion, now driving for Ferrari. Starting 12th after failing to advance beyond Q2 in qualifying, Hamilton’s pace contrasted sharply with that of his teammate Charles Leclerc, who secured pole position.
After qualifying, Hamilton voiced strong self-criticism, calling himself “useless” for not reaching Q3 despite having a car capable of securing pole. He also hinted that Ferrari might consider replacing him, illustrating his frustration at the moment.
During these hardships, Toto Wolff publicly supported Hamilton, reaffirming his status as the “Greatest Of All Time.” Wolff emphasized the emotional transparency Hamilton has consistently shown throughout his career and his tendency to self-reflect harshly after setbacks:
“That is Lewis wearing his heart on his sleeve. It’s what he thought when he was asked after the session. It was very raw. He was down on himself. We had it in the past when he felt that he’d underperformed in his own expectations,”
“He has been that emotionally transparent since he was a young adult. He will beat himself up. But he’s the GOAT and will always be the GOAT. [Nothing] will take that away, no single weekend or race season which hasn’t gone to plan. That’s something he needs to always remember – that he’s the Greatest Of All Time,”
Wolff’s comments came at a time when Hamilton experienced some of his poorest results at the Hungaroring, finishing outside the points for the first time this season. It marked one of the most disappointing weekends in a race venue where he has previously celebrated eight victories.
The Broader Meaning of Hamilton’s Support and Wolff’s Endorsement
The mutual support between Lewis Hamilton and Kimi Antonelli reveals the important role experienced drivers play in nurturing new talent within competitive environments like Formula 3 and Formula 1. Hamilton’s visit to Antonelli and his encouraging words demonstrate a legacy of mentorship that transcends team affiliations.
Toto Wolff’s acknowledgment of Hamilton as a “pillar” of Mercedes and his insistence that Hamilton’s GOAT status remains unchallenged illustrate the deep respect maintained despite Hamilton’s move to Ferrari. Wolff’s steady backing during Hamilton’s challenging period highlights the enduring nature of their professional and personal relationship.
Looking ahead, these dynamics suggest Hamilton will continue to receive support from both his former team and new teammates as he adapts to the demands of Ferrari. Meanwhile, Antonelli’s development may be bolstered by Hamilton’s guidance, potentially easing the pressure of early career setbacks.
