Toto Wolff Jokes About ‘Tears’ Over Lewis Hamilton’s…read .
The highly anticipated seventh season of Netflix’s Drive to Survive has once again delivered exclusive behind-the-scenes moments from the world of Formula 1, and one of the standout moments comes from Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff reacting to Lewis Hamilton’s decision to leave the Silver Arrows for Ferrari.
Hamilton, the most successful driver in Mercedes’ history, sent shockwaves through the F1 paddock when he announced—before the 2024 season had even begun—that he would be making a dramatic switch to Ferrari in 2025. The revelation caught Wolff by surprise, and previously unseen footage from Drive to Survive has now shown how he and his team processed the news.
Having spent 12 years with Mercedes, Hamilton’s departure marks the end of an era. Together, he and the Brackley-based team dominated Formula 1, securing six of his seven world championships and helping Mercedes achieve an unprecedented eight consecutive constructors’ titles. His move to Ferrari—F1’s most legendary team—has only fueled excitement for the 2025 season, as fans eagerly anticipate how he will adapt to the new challenge.
Wolff’s Reaction: A Moment of Reflection and Humor
A preview clip from the latest season of Drive to Survive, aired on Sky Sports, captures Wolff’s initial response to Hamilton’s shock departure. The usually composed team boss admitted that the news felt “surreal” after such a long partnership with the British driver.
“When he told me, it seemed a bit surreal,” Wolff said. “When my driver—after 12 years—tells me he’s going to Ferrari.”
Clearly struggling to picture Hamilton in Ferrari’s signature red overalls, Wolff added: “Really? I can’t even picture you in a red overall—how does that even fit?”
While Wolff acknowledged the logic of Hamilton seeking a new challenge at this stage of his career, he admitted the timing of the decision was unexpected. “What came as a surprise was the timing—why would he do that now?”
It was at this moment that Wolff, wiping his eye, appeared to get emotional. However, the Mercedes boss quickly clarified that he wasn’t shedding tears over Hamilton’s departure—at least not officially. “Sorry, I have a hair in my eye,” he quipped, before humorously calling out Netflix’s signature dramatic editing style.
“You are using that already, I’m sure, for tears—like he was crying,” Wolff joked, poking fun at Drive to Survive’s tendency to heighten F1’s natural drama.
The End of an Era, The Start of a New Rivalry
Hamilton’s departure from Mercedes is undoubtedly one of the biggest storylines in recent F1 history. Having built a dynasty together, Wolff and Hamilton’s professional relationship has been one of the most successful in the sport, but now, the seven-time world champion is embarking on a new chapter with Ferrari.
For Mercedes, the focus now shifts to the future. With George Russell continuing as part of the team, speculation remains over who will replace Hamilton in 2025. Several names have been linked to the coveted seat, but the official announcement is still awaited.
As for Hamilton, his move to Ferrari sets up an electrifying 2025 season. Fans will be eager to see how he adapts to the Maranello-based team and whether he can bring the Scuderia its first drivers’ championship since 2007. With the competitive landscape of Formula 1 constantly evolving, his presence in Ferrari red will only add to the sport’s already thrilling narrative.
In the meantime, Drive to Survive continues to deliver the off-track drama that F1 fans crave. Wolff’s humorous take on Hamilton’s exit adds an entertaining twist to an otherwise emotional transition. While Mercedes moves forward with new plans, and Hamilton embraces his Ferrari dream, one thing is certain—Formula 1’s 2025 season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent history.
