Toto Wolff describes his job at Mercedes in Formula 1 as an “ejector seat” and explains why “good” is not good enough – he also comments on his future
Mercedes motorsport boss Toto Wolff has given candid insights into his understanding of leadership, describing his position as a “hot seat” should his own performance drop from ‘great’ to just “good.”
Wolff has been managing the Brackley-based racing team since 2013 and has led the team to eight constructors’ and seven drivers’ world championships during that time, with Lewis Hamilton winning six titles and Nico Rosberg one.
However, the Austrian was cautious about the term “leadership” in an interview with Forbes business magazine. ” I’m almost embarrassed to talk about leadership,“ said Wolff. ”I struggle with the idea of a single leader. I couldn’t be the best CFO, the best marketing director, and the best managing director all at the same time. I see myself as being at the center of this team. When a final decision has to be made, I make it. But I rely on the collective,” said the Austrian.
Responsibility for 2,000 families
Wolff describes his workforce as his “tribe,” which he must protect, but to which he also owes clarity about the mission. In doing so, he sets the highest standards for himself and the management team.
“You have to be great. If you slip from great to good because you’re not motivated enough or you fall behind technologically, then it’s a hot seat,” he explains. “I am responsible for the 2,000 people who work in this team, for their families, their standard of living, their mortgages, their dreams and their hopes.”
Valtteri Bottas, who drove alongside Lewis Hamilton for Mercedes for five seasons and served as a reserve driver in 2025, highlighted Wolff’s social skills. “One of his strengths is reading people and learning how to deal with different characters, because everyone is different,” said the Finn. “Some may need more pressure, some less. And he tries to figure out what works for each individual.”
No plans to step down
Although the Austrian sold a 15 percent stake in his holding company at the end of 2025, which represents a five percent stake in the Mercedes Formula 1 team, he confirmed that he currently has no plans to give up his operational role.
“I have no plan to sell the team and no plan to give up my role,” he clarified. “I’m actually in a good position and enjoying it. And as long as I feel that I’m contributing and others feel that I’m contributing, there’s no reason to think in that direction.”
