Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has suggested that Lewis Hamilton's new relationship with Kim Kardashian may have played a role in his victory at the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix on Sunday. The seven-time world champion secured his first win for Ferrari since switching to the Italian team in 2025, putting his pursuit of a record-breaking eighth title firmly on track.
Hamilton's Historic Win
The triumph marked Ferrari's first since Mexico in October 2024 and made Hamilton, 41, the oldest Formula One race winner since 1970. He capitalized on a well-timed Virtual Safety Car (VSC) and the retirement of championship leader Kimi Antonelli to take control, finishing more than 20 seconds ahead of former Mercedes teammate George Russell in second place. Russell had started from pole position and seemed poised to extend Mercedes' dominance this season, but the retirement of home favorite Fernando Alonso allowed Hamilton, who was on an alternative strategy, to emerge from a quick pit stop in first place and claim his 106th career Grand Prix victory.
Wolff's Comments on Hamilton's Revival
Wolff, who guided Hamilton through six of his seven championships at Mercedes, was asked about the Briton's resurgence after a difficult first season at Maranello. He highlighted Hamilton's work ethic and the impact of new regulations. "Hard work," Wolff said. "I think this is a car that is maybe different to the previous era cars with the bouncing, with the stiffness, maybe not easy to feel. And this is back to more conventional driving in terms of at least aerodynamics and vehicle dynamics." He added, "Obviously, the engine management is completely different, but you can see he's driving strong. The dynamics in the team look to be good between him and his race engineer."
Personal Life Influence
Wolff then indicated that Hamilton's private life may have contributed, including his relationship with American reality TV star Kim Kardashian. "I saw him on the podium, on the telly. I mean, that face shows me that he's very happy," Wolff said. "Maybe the girlfriend helps. Helped me to have a partner that you have a stable family life, and they seem to be getting on really well. I think it's all of those factors that put together the emotional and the personal and professional perspective. If they are in a good place, you win."
The couple began dating earlier this year and made their first public appearance together at the Monaco Grand Prix earlier this month.
