Toto Wolff in Advanced Talks to Sell Part of Mercedes F1 Stake

Toto Wolff is in advanced negotiations to sell a portion of his shareholding in the Mercedes Formula 1 team, according to reports.

The Mercedes team principal and CEO, who currently owns one-third (33%) of the outfit, is believed to be exploring the sale of around five per cent of his stake. If completed, the deal would leave the Austrian with an estimated 28% ownership in the team.

Despite the potential sale, Wolff is expected to remain in his leadership roles at Mercedes, continuing as both Team Principal and Chief Executive Officer.

Deal Values Mercedes at £4.6 Billion

The proposed transaction reportedly values the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team at around £4.6 billion, marking a substantial rise in value since Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS purchased its one-third share for £208 million in 2022.

A Mercedes spokesperson declined to comment on the ongoing discussions but reaffirmed the team’s stability and unity among its ownership group:

“We will be making no comment on this. The governance of the team will remain unchanged, and all three partners Mercedes-Benz, Toto, and INEOS are fully committed to the ongoing success of Mercedes-Benz in Formula 1.”

A Decade of Dominance and Continued Competitiveness

Under Wolff’s stewardship since 2013, Mercedes has become one of the most successful teams in Formula 1 history, winning eight consecutive Constructors’ Championships (2014–2021) and seven Drivers’ Championships, six with Lewis Hamilton and one with Nico Rosberg.

While the team’s dominance has waned in the face of McLaren’s resurgence, Mercedes remains a front-running force. As the 2025 season nears its conclusion, the Brackley-based squad sits second in the Constructors’ standings, trailing newly crowned champions McLaren.

George Russell has delivered both of Mercedes’ race wins this year and currently holds fourth place in the Drivers’ Championship, behind McLaren duo Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen.

What the Sale Could Mean

If completed, the partial sale would not alter Mercedes’ operational structure or management hierarchy. Instead, it would represent a financial adjustment in Wolff’s investment portfolio and a reflection of Mercedes F1’s soaring valuation amid Formula 1’s global growth.

Wolff, 53, has previously stated that his long-term commitment to Mercedes extends beyond the pit wall, emphasizing that he sees his role as a “custodian” of the team’s future rather than a short-term investor.

With the team continuing to rebuild toward title contention, Wolff’s potential share reduction appears to be a strategic financial move rather than a signal of any impending departure.

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Written by

James Rees

A passionate motorsport journalist from Wales, with over 30 years of love for the sport. A dedicated father of three, working as a content manager, covering the fast-paced world of Formula 1, Formula 2, Formula 3, Formula E, and IndyCar.

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