Toto Wolff reveals moment when Lewis Hamilton met Ferrari president John Elkann in a restaurant

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has revealed an interesting behind-the-scenes story about a chance encounter in a restaurant between Ferrari Chairman John Elkann and Lewis Hamilton. The seven-time world champion recently signed a new deal with Mercedes until 2025. However, Lewis Hamilton expressed to the head of the Silver Arrows his intention to remain 100% with the Brackley team, a decision he ultimately upheld.

Toto Wolff recounts the chance meeting between Hamilton and John Elkann
“There was some delay, but it was clear it would end like this, with Lewis staying with us,” Toto Wolff told in an interview for the Italian daily newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport regarding Lewis Hamilton’s delayed contract renewal with Mercedes. Lewis and I are always very transparent in our relationship. Some time ago, he told me: ‘I saw John Elkann at dinner, but know that I’m not going anywhere.’ When there were reports of a conversation between him and Ferrari, he warned me, ‘Toto, I’m not conducting any negotiations. But I understand the rumors that have leaked.'” – he pointed out.

Lewis Hamilton’s gesture is certainly appreciable, as he immediately wanted to reassure his team principal and make things clear. Hamilton had been linked to Ferrari for the 2023 Formula 1 season, especially in the context of a potential swap with Charles Leclerc.

However, as we later observed, the 38-year-old British driver never had any doubts about continuing his journey with Mercedes. He announced the contract extension for another two years a few weeks ago. This will allow him to compete for 13 seasons with the Brackley team and, more importantly, to continue racing well beyond the age of 40.

“The announced signature came after six months, but solely for marketing and sponsor-related reasons,” Toto Wolff added. “In my mind, there was never a single doubt. We also have George for another two seasons, who is the future of this team. He has grown up in Mercedes and is the next generation after Hamilton. We are happy.” – the Mercedes team principal concluded.

In conjunction with Lewis Hamilton’s extension, George Russell also renewed his contract, having been with Mercedes since the previous season. George Russell, too, signed for an additional two years. Despite the car not being very competitive in the last two seasons, Mercedes can rest easy regarding its driver lineup, as they have one of the strongest pairings on the Formula 1 grid.