Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has shared a surprising and humorous anecdote from the 2018 FIA Prize-Giving Gala, revealing a moment of uncharacteristic physical confrontation involving none other than 2007 Formula 1 World Champion Kimi Raikkonen. According to Wolff, the incident occurred backstage when a reportedly inebriated Raikkonen insulted then-F2 champion George Russell. Wolff, known for his composed and calculated demeanor, said he felt compelled to defend his young driver — resulting in a brief, yet memorable clash.
The gala, held in St. Petersburg, Russia, is an annual formal event organized by the FIA to honor motorsport champions across different categories. That year, Kimi Raikkonen, racing for Ferrari, had finished third in the F1 standings, while Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel took first and second place respectively. As per FIA tradition, the top three drivers in the championship must attend the ceremony. Raikkonen arrived, fulfilling that obligation — albeit under the visible influence of alcohol.
During the event, Raikkonen’s antics on stage gained viral attention, but according to Wolff, the real drama unfolded backstage. Speaking recently in an interview with Austrian broadcaster ORF, Wolff disclosed that Raikkonen made derogatory comments toward George Russell, who had just secured the F2 championship and was widely expected to ascend to Formula 1 soon thereafter.
While recounting the event, Wolff sought permission from Russell to share the story publicly. “That’s up to you,” Russell replied with a laugh, indicating that he bore no ill will over the incident. This gave Wolff the green light to dive into the tale, albeit with some hesitation. “It’s a somewhat embarrassing story, but it’s what happened,” he admitted.
Wolff went on to explain that his reaction was instinctive. “I grew up in a tough environment where sometimes you had to defend yourself,” he said. “When someone insults a member of your team — especially someone as young and promising as George was — you act on instinct. So yes, I threw a punch, and that was the end of it.”
Though Wolff didn’t elaborate on the nature of Raikkonen’s remarks, his protective instincts took over. The Mercedes boss emphasized that while he values diplomacy, his loyalty to his team trumps all. “I will give everything for my family or my team,” he said. “I will always put my arm around their shoulders if necessary to protect them.”
Raikkonen, known for his unfiltered personality and indifference to formal settings, has often been a source of headline-grabbing moments. From drinking champagne in press conferences to walking away from race incidents without much concern, the Finn has built a reputation for doing things on his own terms. While this incident certainly fits that pattern, it’s rare for his behavior to result in such a confrontation.
Wolff’s account also humanizes the world of Formula 1, showing that even high-level executives are not immune to the heat of the moment. While fans are used to seeing calculated strategies and press-friendly soundbites, this story underscores the raw emotions and personal bonds that drive the sport behind the scenes.
Interestingly, Russell, who joined Mercedes as a full-time F1 driver in 2022, has often credited Wolff for his guidance and support. It’s possible that this backstage altercation further solidified the trust between the two — a bond that has helped Russell grow into one of the sport’s top young talents.
The story has amused fans across social media, with many surprised by Wolff’s uncharacteristic burst of aggression. Others have expressed admiration for his loyalty, noting that such moments of personal defense are rare among senior figures in the paddock.
Though no official comment has been made by Raikkonen regarding the incident, the tale now adds another eccentric chapter to his storied and unpredictable career. Whether the punch was more symbolic than serious remains unknown, but it certainly paints a vivid picture of the passion that fuels the world of Formula 1.
As for Wolff, the story — though labeled “embarrassing” by him — may only strengthen his image as a leader who doesn’t just talk about team unity, but demonstrates it when it matters most. In a sport where milliseconds and mental strength decide titles, having someone like that in your corner might be more important than any telemetry readout.
