Toto Wolff hails Mercedes F1’s reinvention ahead of 2025 season

Mercedes is ushering in a new era this Formula 1 season.

With living legend Lewis Hamilton beginning his journey at Ferrari after departing the team, Mercedes is turning to young phenom Andrea Kimi Antonelli to drive alongside George Russell. In addition, the team welcomed a new clothing partnership with adidas, which they launched at the company’s headquarters in Herzogenaurach, Germany on Thursday.

At that launch, Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff spoke with Sky Sports F1 about Hamilton’s departure, and the arrival of Antonelli.

“It was right for both of us,” Wolff told Sky Sports about Hamilton’s move to Ferrari.

“I think when you see Lewis in his first appearances at Ferrari, this picture in front of Enzo Ferrari’s house, it’s iconic. Lewis with his sense of style, and I’ve told him,” added the Mercedes boss.

“And at the same time, us embarking on a different route, trying to reinvent ourselves with a young driver - in addition to George, who isn’t mentioned enough,” continued Wolff. “We have a senior, accomplished driver that has won races, and this new kid coming up.

“I think it was a refresh for both of us.”

That “new kid” of course is the young phenom Antonelli, who recently secured his road driver’s license, months after securing his FIA Super License.

Antonelli turned 18 back in August.

Wolff, along with the team’s three drivers, hailed the new partnership with adidas. The team launched their first collection with adidas on Thursday, with Wolff in attendance along with Russell, Antonelli, and reserve driver Valtteri Bottas, who makes his return to Mercedes after driving for Sauber the past few seasons.

“This is a trailblazing partnership,” said Wolff in a statement. “adidas is so culturally relevant and has overtaken its competitors in recent years. It is a brand that is always on the front foot, working with world-class athletes to innovate and push the boundaries. To be part of the adidas family is therefore very special; we are excited for the journey ahead of us, and to break new ground within motorsport.”

Eagle-eyed observers will note the distinctive “three stripes” on the shoulders of each piece of the team kit.

The trio of drivers shared Wolff’s excitement.

“Our partnership with adidas is incredibly exciting,” said Russell. “It gives us a refreshed energy as we open the next chapter in our team’s story. We all feel incredibly privileged to be working with such a great brand. This first collection looks great and is designed with performance in mind. That is so important to us as drivers and will play a key role in helping us on and off the track.”

“It has been amazing to be here at adidas HQ today. It is an incredible partnership, and I am very excited to be starting my F1 career for Mercedes wearing adidas,” said Antonelli. “This first collection is super cool, and we’ve got more drops lined up for later in the year which I know our fans will love. I know we’re going to look great in the paddock and our supporters will do so too in the grandstands and at home!”

The veteran Bottas conceded that it was emotional to pull on the Mercedes kit again.

“It has been great to be here at adidas HQ in Herzogenaurach today. It is such an impressive place and brand,” said Bottas. “The new kit looks cool and, having had a few years away, putting the Mercedes shirt on this morning gave me goosebumps. I love this team, and it is great to be back for 2025.”