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Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff says he already has his replacement in mind. Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas give their comments.
Toto Wolff recently said he was thinking about who would take over from him once he decides to leave his role of team principal. After Mercedes clinched the 2020 Constructors’ title he revealed he has a person in mind.
“My situation is a little bit different, because I’m a co-owner with Mercedes of the team, so I’m never going to abandon it, because it’s just what I love to do,” said the Austrian.
“What’s better than to be part of a sports team, to be part of such a fantastic gang of people?
“What I said is that I believe everybody has a shelf life in a role. I haven’t come to the end of mine, I think I can still contribute. But I need to think about the future also going forward.
“Bringing somebody up, developing him doing this role, is something that is a fantastic challenge for me that will be one of the next chapters. But you will see me around for a while.”
Asked if he has a specific person in mind, Wolff said: “I have, but I can’t tell you.”
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Wolff’s long-time collaborator Lewis Hamilton gave his thoughts on the Austrian possibly leaving his role.
“I don’t know who he will replace, but again, he is a leader,” the Briton said.
“He’s not going to put anyone who is not up to the job. He will find the right people.
“That’s why we’ve had the success we’ve had, he’s found the right people and put them in the position to be able to shine as bright as possible. He has just empowered every person in this team to be the best they can be.
“He will find somebody who will be able to take on and continue. But it’s not one person, this team is not about one person, it’s a collective of a lot of people. Toto doesn’t build the car. It’s a real team effort.
“But I’m supportive of him, whatever he wants to do moving forward,” concluded Hamilton.
His team-mate Valtteri Bottas, who was managed by Wolff in his earlier days, says he will be a hard person to replace.
“He’s a smart guy, he knows what kind of support each team member needs, support and criticism, and how to help them to be better versions of themselves,” said the Finn.
“That applies to every single team member. He can read people well, he’s supportive. He’s done something incredible.
“He’s a great guy, and whatever he’s going to do in the future, I’m going to respect that as well.
“In the end, you’re living for yourself with this life,” concluded Bottas.
