Wolff: F1 the only true global platform that counts for Mercedes

Tuesday, 05 June 2018 at 21:35

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There have been some whispers in the paddock suggesting Mercedes may get fed up with Formula 1 in the future, sell up and walk away from the sport, but according to the organisation's motorsport boss Toto Wolff, such a scenario is unlikely in the foreseeable future.

Speaking in Berlin at the Bild-100-Sport conference, Wolff told delegates which included F1 chief Chase Carey, “Formula 1 is part of our core business. The first Mercedes was a racing car. Formula 1 is not just a marketing platform for us. There is a direct technology transfer from the championship."

"We also value the sporting nature of our brand. That’s why we want to stay in the series because it’s the only true global platform that counts for us. It is clearly the top class in racing."

At the same time, Wolff explained why the company has launched a Formula E campaign starting next season, "Electrification is happening, and it is a good message for every brand. Three years ago, I would not have given Formula E a chance but that has changed."

"The series is aimed at a young, urban target group. The organisers have done a good job. For us, it’s like a start-up we’re interested in. But it is complementary to Formula 1 for us, not a competition," added Wolff.