Toto Wolff claims $450 million NOT ENOUGH in… read more
As the 2025 Formula 1 season approaches, the sport is on the cusp of significant changes. With major aerodynamic and engine regulation changes set to be introduced in 2026, the landscape of F1 is poised to undergo a significant transformation. Furthermore, the F1 grid is set to expand with the addition of two new teams, including an 11th entry.
One of the new teams set to join the grid is Cadillac, which has reached a provisional agreement to enter the sport under the General Motors banner. However, the process of Cadillac’s entry into F1 has been met with some skepticism from existing teams, including Mercedes.
In a recent interview with Auto Motor und Sport, Mercedes CEO and team principal Toto Wolff expressed his concerns about the impact of Cadillac’s entry on the sport. Wolff claimed that the reported entry fee required to enter the sport, which is said to be around $450 million, is too low and that F1 teams will ultimately “lose” as a result.
Wolff’s concerns are centered around the fact that the entry fee does not adequately compensate for the direct loss of income that existing teams will experience as a result of the sport’s revenue being divided 11 ways instead of 10. Wolff also expressed uncertainty about what Cadillac plans to invest in the sport, which he believes is a crucial factor in determining the success of their entry.
However, Wolff did concede that if Cadillac were to come into the sport and heavily invest in their team and marketing efforts, it could ultimately be a positive development for F1. “If Cadillac now comes with a works entry and invests a corresponding marketing budget in Formula 1, then that is added value for Formula 1,” Wolff said.
Wolff’s comments highlight the complexities and challenges associated with expanding the F1 grid. While the addition of new teams can bring new energy and investment into the sport, it also raises concerns about the impact on existing teams and the overall financial sustainability of the sport.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that Cadillac’s entry into F1 is being facilitated through a provisional agreement, which is subject to certain conditions and approvals. This has led to some uncertainty and skepticism among existing teams, which are eager to understand the details of Cadillac’s entry and how it will affect the sport.
In conclusion, Toto Wolff’s comments about Cadillac’s entry into F1 highlight the complexities and challenges associated with expanding the sport. While the addition of new teams can bring new energy and investment into the sport, it also raises concerns about the impact on existing teams and the overall financial sustainability of the sport. As the 2025 season approaches, it remains to be seen how Cadillac’s entry will play out and what impact it will have on the sport.
The expansion of the F1 grid is a significant development for the sport, and it will be interesting to see how it unfolds. With Cadillac set to join the grid, along with Audi, which is taking over the Sauber team, the sport is poised for a significant shake-up. Whether this will ultimately be beneficial for the sport remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – the 2025 season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and unpredictable in recent memory.
