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Mercedes Formula One team principal and chief executive Toto Wolff is reportedly in advanced discussions to sell part of his shareholding in the team, in a deal that values the Mercedes F1 outfit at an astonishing £4.6 billion. The valuation marks the highest ever for a Formula One team, surpassing the £3.5 billion mark set by McLaren in its recent ownership restructuring in September.
Wolff, who owns one third of Mercedes F1, is understood to be considering selling a portion of around five percent of his shares. Despite the possible sale, the 53-year-old Austrian is expected to remain in his roles as both team principal and chief executive officer, continuing his leadership of one of the most successful teams in the history of the sport.
The report, first published by Sportico and independently verified by BBC Sport, confirms the scale of the potential deal and the growing value of Formula One teams globally. Mercedes F1’s ownership structure currently consists of three equal partners: Mercedes-Benz, Ineos, and Wolff himself. Each holds a one-third stake in the team.
A Mercedes spokesperson, when asked about the development, declined to comment directly on the matter, stating only that the governance of the team would remain unchanged and that all three partners remain fully committed to Mercedes-Benz’s continued success in Formula One.
If the sale is completed, it would mark a significant leap in valuation since Ineos purchased its one-third share in 2022 for £208 million. The sharp rise in worth highlights the booming commercial and entertainment appeal of Formula One, driven by global audience growth, lucrative broadcasting deals, and the sport’s increasing cultural relevance.
Recent years have seen Formula One gain traction with younger fans worldwide, a trend further boosted by successful media projects such as the Brad Pitt-led Formula One film released last summer. The movie became Pitt’s most successful release to date, grossing over $630 million, and stands as the highest earning sports film in history.
On track, Mercedes continue to be strong contenders. The team currently sits second in the constructors’ championship behind McLaren, with three races remaining in the season. Lead driver George Russell has claimed two victories this year out of twenty-one grands prix and is ranked fourth in the drivers’ standings, trailing McLaren’s Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri as well as Red Bull’s Max Verstappen.
Under Wolff’s leadership, Mercedes dominated Formula One between 2014 and 2021, clinching an unprecedented eight consecutive constructors’ championships and seven drivers’ titles. Six of those belonged to Lewis Hamilton, while one went to Nico Rosberg.
The potential sale of Wolff’s stake marks another milestone in the team’s evolution, reflecting both the business strength of Mercedes F1 and the soaring global appeal of Formula One as a modern sporting powerhouse.
