A new controversy in Formula 1? An email circulating in the paddock alleges possible accusations of Lewis Hamilton being sabotaged by his own team
There is (again) controversy in the world of Formula 1. It seems that a “Lewis Hamilton case” is erupting at Mercedes, linked to an email that has just arrived in the Barcelona paddock. The email accuses Toto Wolff of “sabotaging Lewis Hamilton in every way,” claiming that the Brackley team is putting obstacles in the way of the seven-time world champion’s W15.
Hamilton has had a decidedly difficult start to 2024, his last season with Mercedes before a sensational move to Ferrari in 2025. So far, Russell has often achieved better results in qualifying, with an 8-1 advantage over Hamilton. The 39-year-old’s statements in Monaco, where he said he did not expect to beat Russell in qualifying for the rest of the year, along with his performances not living up to his illustrious career, have fueled theories that Mercedes might favor Russell.
Lewis Hamilton’s Words
During the Spanish Grand Prix press conference, Hamilton responded to media questions related to this possible case, reported by Crash.net: “If you look at past years, we have always been a strong team and have always worked hard together,” Hamilton said. “I think it’s easy to get caught up in emotions. . I also commented in the last race, for example, on my mistakes. I believe we need support, not negativity.”
Hamilton also stated that he was not aware of any negativity directed towards Russell: “George has done his best every single weekend and has given his all for the team, so he cannot be criticized. Obviously, there are always things that can improve in a team, and that happens through conversations and communication, which we are constantly working on. But we are all in the same boat, we all work hard together, and we want to finish on a high note.” We owe it to our long relationship”..
Regarding the email circulating in the paddock, Hamilton wanted to defuse the situation: “I just commented on it, so there’s not much else to add. I haven’t seen the email.”
Russell also wanted to emphasize the team’s solidity: “As Lewis said, you want to feel the support, not spread negativity towards others. It’s not something I have personally seen, but I have heard about it. Obviously, it’s never pleasant to hear these things, but unfortunately, it’s the world we live in at the moment, and anyone in the spotlight has to deal with it,”Russell concluded.
Photo: Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team