F1 teams deny complaining about Toto & Susie Wolff over conflict of interests allegation
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff and his wife Susie Wolff, who serves as the F1 Academy managing director, are reportedly under investigation by the FIA due to suspicions of the exchange of confidential information between them. The FIA initiated the investigation, stating that it is examining “allegations of information of a confidential nature being passed” within the Wolff couple.
Despite the investigation, Mercedes’ Formula 1 rivals have united to deny making any complaints to the FIA regarding the alleged sharing of confidential information between Toto Wolff and Susie Wolff. The FIA’s compliance department is conducting the inquiry into the matter.
Susie Wolff, employed by F1’s commercial rights holder Formula One Management (FOM) as the managing director of its all-female series, has vehemently rejected the allegations, labeling them as “deeply insulting” and rooted in “misogynistic” behavior. The FIA has asserted that the investigation is not driven by misogyny but follows due process. Sources within the governing body suggest that concerns about the Wolffs were raised by more than one F1 team principal.
Both F1 and Mercedes, on Tuesday, refuted the allegations, and all nine other teams released a coordinated statement on Wednesday through their social media channels, denying any submission of a complaint to the FIA.
Red Bull chief Christian Horner expressed surprise at the FIA statement, clarifying that neither his team nor their junior squad AlphaTauri had filed an official complaint. He emphasized Red Bull’s positive engagement with the F1 Academy and disassociated the team from triggering the FIA’s action.
Discussions between the FIA and FOM reportedly took place on Wednesday, but Mercedes had not yet received official correspondence on the investigation. F1 and Mercedes released statements countering the FIA’s investigation, with the latter expressing surprise at the lack of direct communication from the FIA Compliance Department.
Susie Wolff addressed the allegations on her Instagram account, expressing deep insult and suggesting that the accusations were rooted in intimidatory and misogynistic behavior, focusing on her marital status rather than her abilities. Toto Wolff, a prominent figure in F1, has led Mercedes to eight consecutive constructors’ titles.
Mercedes issued a statement rejecting the allegations, expressing surprise at the FIA’s investigation being communicated through a media statement. Formula 1 also denied any wrongdoing, expressing confidence in their processes and cautioning against making serious allegations without substance.