Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has strongly criticized the growing number of conspiracy theories circulating online about the team’s treatment of Lewis Hamilton during the 2024 Formula 1 season. Wolff, known for his candid comments, dismissed the rumors as “crazy, made-up conspiracies” and called for a more respectful dialogue among fans and commentators.
The seven-time World Champion, who has been with Mercedes since 2013, announced earlier this year that he would be leaving the team to join Ferrari in 2025. The decision marked the end of one of F1’s most successful partnerships, with Hamilton claiming six of his seven titles and more than 100 race wins with the team. However, his final season with Mercedes has been challenging, with teammate George Russell outperforming him in several key qualifying sessions and races.
Hamilton’s struggles, including penalties and a distant 12th-place finish at the Qatar Grand Prix, have fueled baseless allegations online. Some fans claim that Mercedes is intentionally giving Hamilton inferior equipment, with one anonymous email even accusing the team of “systematic sabotage.” Wolff has categorically denied these accusations, stating that they have no basis in reality.
“These theories are completely unfounded,” Wolff said during an interview. “We love our fans, but there’s a small group of people who believe in crazy conspiracies. It doesn’t even bother me anymore because these individuals clearly have no understanding of motorsport.”
The email in question, which surfaced in June, was sent to several members of the F1 media and alleged intentional sabotage against Hamilton. Wolff revealed that the email was not authored by a Mercedes employee and confirmed that authorities are investigating the matter.
“When someone hides behind anonymity to spread lies, it crosses a line,” Wolff explained. “We’ve involved the police to track the sender, and we’re taking it very seriously. Online abuse needs to stop. People cannot continue to hide behind screens to attack drivers or teams.”
Wolff also pointed out that Hamilton’s unique driving style has added to the challenges he’s faced with Mercedes’ W15 car, which struggles to handle his aggressive braking and cornering techniques. Despite this, Wolff emphasized that the team has always provided equal treatment to both drivers.
“Lewis has a very specific driving style, and this car isn’t suited to it,” Wolff admitted. “But it’s not intentional. It’s a challenge we’re working on. The idea that we’d sabotage the driver who has brought us so much success is ridiculous.”
Looking ahead, Wolff hopes the toxic environment created by social media will not overshadow Hamilton’s legacy. He also encouraged fans to engage in more constructive conversations.
“Lewis Hamilton is one of the greatest drivers in F1 history. He deserves respect, not baseless accusations. The people spreading these lies owe him an apology.”
As Hamilton prepares for his final race with Mercedes at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Wolff remains focused on celebrating the partnership that has defined an era in Formula 1. “We’ve achieved incredible things together, and no amount of negativity can take that away,” he concluded.
