Mercedes’ Toto Wolff Opens up About Lewis Hamilton and the 2018 F1 Season

The man at the helm of Mercedes-Benz' top motorsport operation is confident the 2018 season will be a success.
www.thedrive.com

Share

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

To say that the circus of Formula One never sleeps is an understatement. With the exception of the FIA-mandated breaks that force teams to shut down for periods of time over the summer, top teams like Mercedes-AMG Petronas work tirelessly around the clock to develop next year’s title contenders.

Executive Director and Head of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport Toto Wolff recently went on camera to answer a few questions about the upcoming 2018 season. The majority of the questions surrounded the development of the upcoming W09, the longest-ever F1 season (21 races), the introduction of all-new tires, and of course, Lewis Hamilton’s contract.

When asked about the status of Hamilton’s agreement, Wolff answered: “Lewis has become such an important pillar within the team, that it’s a no-brainer that we continue with each other.” Further adding that “negotiations are ongoing” and that it’s only a “matter of time until we see him put a signature to the document.”

The Malaysian-backed German racing team has had an impressive few years in F1, but the 2017 season was an all-out success. The Silver Arrows scored 12 race wins, four 1-2 finishes, 15 pole positions, 26 podiums, 18 front-row starts, and three front-row lockouts. Of course, it’s the championship points that secure the biggest share of the FIA’s money, and Wolff’s team did exceptionally well by winning the Constructors’ Championship with a total of 668 points.

Will 2018 be Mercedes’ and Hamilton’s fifth consecutive title?

 
Best Black Friday Deals

See All Black Friday Sales

Our editors combed through the best early Black Friday deals to bring you the most savings on the products you love.