Toto Wolff, Mercedes CEO, newly crowned Formula E Champion for both drivers and teams, believes that the Electric Series organizers must begin a period of reflection after the end of the season, and reconsider many things for the future.
After the announcements from high-caliber manufacturers, such as Audi, BMW and Mercedes itself, the boss believes more than just a defeat, it is an opportunity to repackage and start a new path.
“Disruptions always offer opportunities for change. At first glance, of course, it’s unfortunate that three premium manufacturers are pulling out all at once, but perhaps Formula E just needs a reboot to take the next step. Other teams, possibly privateers, will grow because they will become the center of attention,” Wolff told the British press.
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Mercedes joined the Formula E grid in 2019, and had relatively quick success when Nyck de Vries won the 2020-21 Drivers’ Championship. But unlike their Formula 1 efforts, however, that title will not become the starting point for sustained FE glory, in the executive’s view, and so they confirmed that they will leave the series after season eight.
Formula E has been referred to as the future of motorsport in recent years, but Mercedes feels that Formula 1 is better suited to the development of its electric vehicles.
Family Competition
Toto’s wife, Susie Wolff, is team boss of Venturi Racing in Formula E. Ironically, it was De Vries who beat Edoardo Mortara, driving for Susie’s team.
The Mercedes manager pointed out, however, that the on-track rivalry did not generate discord at home. “No, not at all. In fact, we went on vacation together and enjoyed the family time,” he said.
“Of course we were very happy with the title, but Edoardo Mortara not only became runner-up, but Susie’s other driver, Norman Nato, also won the last race in Berlin. That has to be considered at least an equal success,” he added.
Written by I Jhonattan González
