Toto Wolff sharply criticized the FIA's allegations. © APA/afp / FERENC ISZA

After allegations: “A personal attack”

Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff sharply criticizes the investigation into alleged betrayal of secrets in Formula 1. Especially because it's his family.

13 December 2023

From: dpa

Toto Wolff sharply criticized the motorsport association FIA following the investigation into alleged betrayal of secrets against him and his wife. The Mercedes team boss told Sport Bild that he had developed a thick skin and could deal with attacks. “But when you attack my family, it’s a different level. An absurd accusation was created out of thin air. This was a personal attack that crossed a red line.”

Two weeks ago, the FIA ​​announced that it would examine media reports that a Formula 1 team boss had been given confidential information by an employee of the rights holder. The background was a portal's report about an alleged conflict of interest between Wolff and his wife Susie, about which other Formula 1 officials are said to have complained to FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

Mercedes is keeping legal action open

The nine other teams then published largely identical statements in which they assured that they had not lodged any complaints with the world association about a possible conflict of interest. Two days after the announcement, the world motorsport association closed the investigation. There are “no ongoing ethical or disciplinary investigations involving any individual,” it said.
Mercedes remains open to legal action against the FIA. Susie Wolff reported online hatred against herself and her family after the allegations became known.