Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS continues to hold a significant one-third stake in the Mercedes F1 team, even in light of recent discussions that hinted at a potential separation. The details surrounding INEOS’ partnership with Mercedes remain undisclosed, leaving room for various interpretations and speculation among fans and analysts alike.
Toto Wolff, the principal figure of the Mercedes team, has strongly dismissed the rumors suggesting that INEOS was on the verge of disengaging from their affiliation. He stressed the importance of Ratcliffe’s role, stating that he, Ratcliffe, and Mercedes-Benz are united as partners, each with an equal share in the team. This alignment of ownership underscores the collaborative spirit that has been essential to the team’s triumphant journey in Formula 1.
At the F1 season launch event in London, Wolff addressed the circulating reports during an interview with Sky Sports News. He declared categorically, “It was never a consideration,” dismissing any notion of a split. He praised Ratcliffe as a key ally, referring to him as part of the “three amigos”—a reference that emphasizes camaraderie and collective goals. Wolff remarked, “Jim Ratcliffe is one of us three amigos—Mercedes, Jim, and I. We are never going to part ways. He’s been a great sponsor. We have had projects together. Nothing you read in the news will change anything.” This conveys a message of consistency and unity, reinforcing the idea that their partnership goes beyond mere financial investment.
Additionally, a spokesperson from the Mercedes team echoed Wolff’s sentiments by informing Sky Sports News that there had been no negotiations regarding any changes in their shareholder dynamic. The spokesperson asserted that the sponsorship with INEOS remains “ongoing and stable,” further illustrating that the relationship is solid and unshakeable despite the unfounded speculation.
Yet, it’s important to highlight that INEOS has recently been reevaluating its financial commitments across its various sports investments. The organization has made cuts with teams such as Manchester United due to the club’s poor performance this season, which has seen them languishing at 15th place in the Premier League. Moreover, INEOS is currently engaged in a legal dispute with the New Zealand rugby union team regarding unpaid sponsorship fees and has also parted ways with Sir Ben Ainslie’s America’s Cup crew. These developments might have influenced the rumors surrounding their partnership with Mercedes, piquing the curiosity of observers.
On a more exciting note, Mercedes, along with other Formula 1 teams, revealed their new livery for the 2025 car at the F1 75 Live event held at London’s O2 Arena. This year, the new W16 car will officially be launched in Bahrain, where drivers George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli will put it to the test during an initial shakedown just two days before pre-season testing commences.
This upcoming season signifies a pivotal transformation for Mercedes, as they enter a new era without the presence of seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who has made headlines by transitioning to Ferrari. Wolff shared his enthusiasm about the fresh season, expressing, “We are excited. It seems like such a long time that we haven’t raced.” He spoke about the anticipation of assessing whether the advancements to their car will lead to improved performance on the tracks and how they hope to capture weekend victories akin to their successes in Las Vegas.
Furthermore, Wolff reflected on the illustrious legacy of Mercedes in the motorsport arena, stating, “Mercedes has a long history in motorsport and it’s an unbelievable honour to carry that baton forward.” He conveyed the team’s eagerness to commence the new chapter of their story, emphasizing the promising potential for both George and Kimi to make substantial contributions as they navigate the forthcoming challenges. The overarching tone is one of hope and readiness, setting the stage for what is anticipated to be an exhilarating season in the world of Formula 1.
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