As Lewis Hamilton departs Mercedes for Ferrari in 2025, the legacy of his powerful advocacy for diversity and inclusion will continue to shape the team he leaves behind. Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has pledged to uphold Hamilton’s mission, ensuring that the Brackley-based outfit remains a leader in promoting representation and inclusion within Formula 1.
Hamilton’s Lasting Impact on Mercedes
Over his 11 years with Mercedes, Hamilton not only claimed six of his seven world championships but also brought a transformative focus on sociopolitical issues, including diversity. His collaboration with Wolff catalyzed significant changes in the team’s culture and makeup.
“He’s a global phenomenon,” Wolff told Channel 4 after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. “The impact he had on the team in terms of diversity has made us stronger. Today, a large part of our population comes from underrepresented groups, bringing different cultures, perceptions, and perspectives.
Hamilton’s influence extended to symbolic gestures such as Mercedes’ switch to an all-black livery in 2020. This move, aimed at supporting diversity and equality, was a direct result of the Briton’s advocacy and his efforts to highlight systemic racism following the killings of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor.
A Legacy Beyond Racing
In reflecting on his time at Mercedes, Hamilton expressed pride in his off-track contributions, particularly his work in fostering inclusion.
“The thing I’m most proud of, when I think about what I leave behind, is the work we’ve done with diversity and inclusion,” Hamilton shared. “From sitting down with Toto, to the team being open-minded, to creating a diversity team—it’s been incredible to see the progress.”
Hamilton’s efforts led to Mercedes implementing comprehensive diversity training, forming a dedicated inclusion team, and investing heavily in programs designed to bring underrepresented groups into motorsport.
Wolff: “We’re Not Backing Down”
Wolff emphasized that Mercedes remains committed to Hamilton’s vision.
“He made us kneel when we needed to do it, and he helped us make the car black—it’s gonna stay black. We’re not bailing out of there,” Wolff asserted, signaling that the team’s work on diversity is far from over.
The 2024 Mercedes W15 already features a mixed silver-and-black livery, symbolizing both heritage and continued commitment to inclusivity.
Hamilton’s Continued Influence
While Ferrari is set to benefit from Hamilton’s skills on the track, Mercedes won’t entirely lose his presence. The 39-year-old has promised to keep an eye on the initiatives he helped start, even as he dons the red Ferrari overalls.
“When I sit with Toto, I say, ‘I hope you continue having these difficult conversations.’ And he said he will, so I’ll come by every now and then to make sure that continues,” Hamilton remarked.
The Road Ahead
Hamilton’s departure marks the end of an era for Mercedes, but his legacy transcends racing. Under Wolff’s stewardship, the team aims to remain a benchmark not only in performance but also in creating a more inclusive environment in motorsport.
As Hamilton begins his Ferrari chapter, Mercedes looks poised to carry forward his vision, ensuring that the sport Hamilton has dominated also reflects the world he strives to improve.