Toto Wolff, Team Principal and CEO of Mercedes, is actively planning for his eventual succession within the Formula 1 team. He has initiated a process of vetting individuals to take over his responsibilities. Wolff’s current contract with Mercedes extends until the conclusion of the 2026 Formula 1 season.
The Austrian, now 54, joined the Mercedes F1 team in 2013 as motorsport boss and executive director. He also acquired a stake in the squad at that time. Under Wolff’s leadership, Mercedes has experienced its most successful period in Formula 1 history.
This era included winning the Constructors’ World Championship eight consecutive times from 2014 to 2021. Drivers Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg secured seven Drivers’ World Titles during this period.
Wolff anticipates that his current role will be divided among two or three individuals. He is currently assessing candidates who he believes are already performing effectively in various areas of the team.
Due to his significant ownership stake in Mercedes, Wolff does not foresee a complete departure from the brand. He expects to transition into an executive, non-executive chairmanship role within the organisation.
His ownership of Mercedes stands at 33%, alongside Mercedes-Benz Group AG and INEOS. This three-way ownership structure has been in place since 2020.
In a related development, Bradley Lord was appointed Deputy Team Principal of the Mercedes F1 team for the 2026 season. This promotion was officially announced on March 20, 2026.
Lord previously served as Mercedes’ Chief Communications Officer and Team Representative. His new role is intended to distribute responsibilities more efficiently across the senior leadership team.
“While my role and overall responsibilities will not change one millimetre, Bradley’s work as Deputy Team Principal will further enhance the capability of our leadership group and provide continued support for me as our Team Principal and CEO,” Wolff stated.
Wolff further explained that the change formalises a structure that had already been operating in practice for some time. Lord joined Mercedes as Communications Manager in 2013.
On track, Mercedes is experiencing a strong 2026 season. Andrea Kimi Antonelli, in his second year of Formula 1, is a leading contender for the Drivers’ World Championship.
Antonelli made his F1 debut with Mercedes in 2025. He has secured multiple race victories in 2026, including the Chinese Grand Prix.
As of August 2026, Antonelli led the Drivers’ Standings with 219 points, holding a 50-point advantage over his closest rival. He has accumulated 8 wins and 17 podiums since his F1 debut.
Mercedes is also focusing on the upcoming 2026 technical regulations. Wolff indicated the team is strategically planning upgrades, with more developments anticipated in the latter half of the current season.
The team’s management structure is being continuously optimised to meet the demands of a rapidly expanding sport. This includes preparing for the new engine formula and chassis rules.
Wolff has estimated the Mercedes F1 team’s valuation to be between $10 billion and $12 billion. He attributes this high valuation to the team’s revenue, profit margins, and its status as a scarce asset in the sport.
