F1 News: Toto Wolff Weighs In On Lewis Hamilton Rumour - "Wanted Media Attention"

Toto Wolff dismissed rumours involving Lewis Hamilton, accusing Christian Horner of seeking media attention

In a recent development at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Toto Wolff, the team principal of Mercedes, expressed his views on the ongoing rumours involving Lewis Hamilton. Wolff dismissed the claims, suggesting they were a bid for media attention by Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull Racing.

Key Takeaways:

• Wolff's Dismissal: Toto Wolff refutes Christian Horner's claims about Lewis Hamilton's father's involvement in contractual affairs, asserting Anthony hasn't been involved since 2010.
• Horner's Motive: Wolff suggests Horner's comments about Hamilton are aimed at gaining media attention, rather than reflecting reality.
• Mercedes vs. Ferrari: Amidst the controversy, Mercedes focuses on the World Championship, with pressure to outpace Ferrari after mixed results in practice sessions.

Toto Wolff, the Mercedes team principal, openly criticised Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull Racing, for his recent comments on Lewis Hamilton's involvement in contractual matters, during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend.

"I believe Anthony [Hamilton] isn't involved since 2010," Wolff told Sky's German outlet, addressing the rumours about Lewis Hamilton's father, Anthony Hamilton, and his involvement in his son's contractual affairs.

Wolff expressed his suspicion about the timing and motive behind these rumours:

"You also wonder why such a story comes up in the last race," he remarked, highlighting the odd timing of these allegations.

Wolff did not hesitate to point out who he believed was behind these comments, casting doubt on Horner's motives. 

"I don't think it's Helmut, he's serious and at the end of the day he makes the decision about the drivers, but I think the other one [ed. Horner] wanted a bit of media attention by mentioning Lewis' name," Wolff stated.

Despite the irritation, Wolff expressed his desire to move past the issue:

"If that's what he needs, then let him do it," he said.

In the backdrop of this controversy, Mercedes is concentrating on their challenge against Ferrari in the World Championship. With George Russell and Lewis Hamilton finishing P6 and P8 respectively in the second free practice, the team is under pressure to utilise any performance they have available to them, particularly in light of Ferrari's Carlos Sainz's potential grid penalty following his crash in FP2. This situation offers an opportunity for Mercedes to maintain their lead in the constructors' championship.

Despite the off-track drama, Mercedes' primary focus remains on the track, as they strive for a strong finish in the World Championship.