Toto Wolff revealed Lewis Hamilton was ‘crying’ and ‘laughing’ following Mercedes’ new partnership with adidas.
The clothing brand and F1 team showcased their new collection on Thursday with drivers George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli wearing their new race suits – with the iconic three stripes on their shoulders and legs.
During Hamilton’s time at Mercedes, they worked with Tommy Hilfiger, but his switch to Ferrari coincided with adidas entering the world of F1 for the first time.
The seven-time F1 champion officially joined the Italian team in January and has begun car testing ahead of the 2025 season opener in Australia on March 16.
The Silver Arrows have replaced Hamilton with 18-year-old Antonelli who was alongside teammate Russell on Wednesday to celebrate their partnership with adidas.
Talking about Hamilton’s well-known admiration for adidas, Wolff told Sky Sports F1: “Lewis said that it is probably the sports brand with the most cultural relevance, and he was crying and laughing, I think, knowing that we were going to adidas.”
Wolff also reflected on Hamilton’s exit after 12 years and six drivers’ titles with the team.
“It was right for both of us,” the Mercedes team principle said.
“I think when you see Lewis in his first appearances at Ferrari, this picture in front of Enzo Ferrari’s house, it’s iconic. Lewis with his sense of style, and I’ve told him.”
Hamilton and Charles Leclerc were both behind the wheel on Monday as they took part in the first day of Pirelli tyre testing.
Across 87 laps, Hamilton recorded a personal best of 1:15.93 in his Ferrari.
Pre-season testing is scheduled for Bahrain from February 26 to 28 ahead of the opening race weekend two weeks later.
Hamilton arrives having won 105 F1 races in his career, including at Silverstone and Spa in 2024.
The 40-year-old has become a fashion icon, often walking around in unique statement pieces and appearing in magazines such as Vogue.
Hamilton was dressed in a black double-breasted suit and long overcoat worn over his shoulders during his first official day at Ferrari.
Hamilton and the Prancing Horse is a match made in heaven as Italy is renowned for their top quality fashion with brands such as Ferragamo, Prada and Gucci.
Wolff insisted that his team feel no ‘hangover’ despite Hamilton’s departure who has become a legend of the sport.
The 40-year-old has 39 million followers on Instagram, 7.5 million more than F1’s official page.