Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff is not new to controversies, but believes that the FIA has ‘crossed the line’ in what he clearly believes is a personal vendetta against his family.
The Austrian’s comments came after the FIA launched a formal investigation into alleged confidential information exchange between Toto and his wife Susie Wolff.
The FIA’s investigation was promptly closed soon after it started and no malpractice was found, but the entire matter left Wolff fuming.
Susie currently works as the chief executive of the F1 Academy, a position she has held since March. Apart from that, she has been associated with the sport for a number of years and is one of its most prominent figures.
“Out of nowhere an absurd accusation was born. It was a personal attack in which the red line was crossed,” Toto said, speaking with German publication Bild. German outlet Bild.
“After 10 years as a team leader, I have developed a tough skin, and I am hardly ever surprised. But this story was shocking.
“If I’m in the crossfire, it’s not a problem for me at all, I can handle it, I have broad shoulders. But when you attack my family, it’s a different level.”
Toto found support from seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who also expressed his disappointment at FIA’s investigation during last weekend’s prize gala.
“It’s disappointing that the FIA has questioned the integrity of one of the most incredible female leaders we’ve ever had in our sport, Susie Wolff, without hearing and without evidence,” Hamilton said.
“Then apologising. This is an unacceptable situation.”