Online bullying is something no human should ever endorse. These incidents are very taxing on a person’s mental health. People who are in the limelight all the time cope with such atrocities every day. In light of this context, Toto Wolff addressed a growing concern. The toxic nature of online interactions is aimed at teams and their drivers. Going to the rightful extent of calling these abusers “cowards,” Wolff also commended Max Verstappen and his partner Kelly Piquet for fighting against online bullying.

According to Toto, online abuse is not something that is happening only to the teams or the bosses. “It happens badly to Lewis and to George,” Wolff added. He continued to say that people must learn from Kelly Piquet and Max Verstappen, who are battling against something so harmful. Wolff remarked sharply at the FIA Press Conference: “People should, and we’ve seen Max speaking out about it and Kelly,” Toto commended.

Toto Wolff does not have any social media; he believes it’s a way of protecting himself. Previously, he commented on people who sit with their laptops and just type away. “If people feel like they’re abusing, want to abuse, and hit out and hide behind a made-up Instagram account… Come up, say who you are, and we’ll take the criticism and discuss, but don’t hide,” Wolff added.

Wolff pointed out that with all the good things that social media provides and all those that have a platform, “that’s just the negatives that come with it.” Toto Wolff also expressed his displeasure about the online abuse they’ve recently faced and are still facing after Hamilton’s exit announcements.

The impact of online trolling on Toto Wolff and Hamilton

Toto Wolff shared that the abusive, hateful opinions online have set a negative narrative about Toto’s relationship with Hamilton. The Mercedes boss expressed his gratitude to have worked with an icon like Lewis Hamilton. “There is no grudge. There is no bad feeling,” Toto stated. According to Wolff, everything within the team is positive; it is the outside that is setting up a different angle.

Earlier this month, after the Canadian Grand Prix, an anonymous email surfaced, allegedly from a Mercedes employee. It accused the team of sabotaging Hamilton’s car. Probably keeping this instance in mind, Wolff said, “If emails are being sent or telephone numbers are being used for these messages, then for me, the joking stops.” Wolff’s implications are stern yet simple. The lives of athletes and their choices are their own.  As helpful as social media can be, its negative side cannot be overlooked completely.

While calling the online trolls ‘cowards’, he applauded Kelly Piquet and Max Verstappen for their vocal opposition. Wolff emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency in digital interactions.

As F1 continues to evolve both on and off the track, Wolff’s words serve as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with an online presence. What are your views on this issue? Let us know in the comments. Until then, continue to raise your voices against online bullying; don’t let it get the best of you.