Hamilton Mercedes legacy ‘transcends’ F1 – Wolff

Toto Wolff has hailed Lewis Hamilton and the legacy he has forged in F1 with Mercedes, highlighting the British driver as “catalyst” for social change and a champion of inclusion.

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will be the 39-year-old’s final race for the Brackley-based squad, at the same time ending Hamilton’s monolithic and thus far career-long association with Mercedes as he heads to Ferrari for 2025.

His current team principal outlined a number of metrics that display the unparalleled levels of success the relationship has enjoyed since 2013.

“After 12 incredible years, we get ready to write the final chapter in our racing story with Lewis this weekend,” Wolff said. “It has been quite a journey. When we first started working together in 2013, we couldn’t have imagined what was to come.

“Six drivers’ world championships. Eight constructors’ titles. 84 wins. 78 pole positions. 153 podium finishes. The most successful driver and team partnership in F1 history.

“Many highs that we have enjoyed. Some crushing lows that we’ve overcome together.

“Lewis’s association with Mercedes goes back 26 years. Every lap of his career so far has been powered by the three-pointed star.”

‘A lasting impact beyond the racetrack’

Wolff was, however, more keen to amplify the role Hamilton has played in advancing diversity and inclusion – both inside and out of the F1 paddock.

The seven-time F1 drivers’ champion has launched initiatives, such as Mission 44, and establishing The Hamilton Commission with the British Royal Academy of Engineering.

Upon signing with Ferrari, the 105-time grand prix winner sought assurances from the team that it would support him and the causes he fights for, as Mercedes has done through charities like Ignite, which focuses on how to increase diversity in motorsport.

“Our relationship has meant so much more than just numbers and statistics, though,” added Wolff.

“It is a legacy that transcends our sport, with a lasting impact beyond the racetrack. One that has strived to increase diversity in our sport. To fight for inclusion.

“Lewis has been the catalyst for so much of this and we have been honoured and proud to work hand-in-hand with him.

“That work won’t stop at the end of this year. But it began because of the impetus led by Lewis.”