Toto Wolff criticizes F1’s “privileged” drivers and the “constant complainers on the radio.”
Following a remarkable championship victory by his young driver Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has taken aim at the "entitled" drivers and the "constant complainants on the radio" within Formula 1. He asserts that this year's world champion should serve as a role model for them.
The Italian secured third place at the Mexico City Grand Prix, which was sufficient for him to clinch the title with four races remaining, making him the youngest champion ever.
Addressing the media at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez after the race, Wolff made a point to emphasize that Antonelli’s achievements highlighted a new approach to winning.
The Mercedes leader refrained from naming any specific drivers in his critique.
“Let me add one last thought now that I have your attention, as I had a conversation with someone else out there - with Mohammed [Ben Sulayem] actually. This concept of winning at any cost, being selfish, opportunistic, and ruthless for one's own gain, that archetype of racing driver has come to an end.
"We now have a new champion who embodies qualities such as humility, integrity, loyalty, respect, and authenticity. He should be an inspiration for many other young drivers in lower formulas. He should also serve as a model for the few privileged ones in Formula 1, the perpetual complainers on the radio, those who grumble, and those who crash.
"Look at this young man, just 20 years old, and consider what you can do to elevate your game. That’s the message for these young talents. That’s how I envision racing drivers in the future, as does the FIA, Mohammed, and Stefano [Domenicali]. That is the essence of modern Formula 1. Kimi exemplifies the contemporary Formula 1 driver not just because of his skill but due to these values. Talent is present in many, but being a good person is essential too.
"He has shown that you can outperform everyone by being a good individual.”
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
Wolff also shared what he conveyed to Antonelli the day before the race regarding his future career, drawing on a remark made by Lapo Elkann about his grandfather, the late Fiat chief Gianni Agnelli.
“What I told him yesterday was inspired by Lapo Elkann, who mentioned that his grandfather was able to remain relevant throughout his entire life. I believe that’s a fantastic statement.
"And I conveyed to him: together we must strive for you to maintain your relevance for life. You have 25 years ahead of you because you will race longer than anyone before you. I want to look back over the years and say, you remained significant throughout your life. It wasn’t just a fleeting moment of greatness, but we all collaborated to help you enhance where needed and become even better.
"Very few manage to stay relevant. Even world champions have faded from popularity to the point where no one is asking for a selfie with them anymore. That’s what I aspire to achieve with you.”
Antonelli has secured nine victories in his second F1 season, having been elevated by Mercedes to take over for Lewis Hamilton in 2025.
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