Mercedes Boss Redefines Leadership in F1 Success

Toto Wolff redefines leadership in F1, emphasizing teamwork and shared goals as the foundation of Mercedes’ dominance.

Wolff, director of the Mercedes F1 team, has revealed that he personally struggles—surprisingly—with the term “leader.”

Wolff has led the Brackley-based team since 2013, when he became co-owner of the F1 outfit. The Austrian has guided his team to remarkable success, including eight Constructors’ titles and seven Drivers’ titles.

“I really struggle with the word ‘leader’ because, to me, a leader stands above their people, not with them.”

“There are so many leaders within our organization, and everyone strives to be the best in their role.”

“I try to contribute as best as I can as team principal; Lewis is a leader as a driver; James Allison is a leader with his engineers. Many others are leaders within the organization.”

“It’s only by doing our jobs well and sharing the same goals that we can succeed.”

“We use this metaphor: we’re not like a group of five-year-olds playing football, all chasing the ball, but we let the ball roll. We each stay where we are, in our area of expertise.”