Mercedes F1 confirm Toto Wolff absence at Imola Grand Prix

Mercedes F1 team have confirmed that their team principal Toto Wolff will not attend the Imola Grand Prix this weekend.

Imola marks the second occasion the F1 boss will miss a race in 2025, following his absence from the Japanese Grand Prix in keeping with his pre-arranged schedule.

Wolff will be swapping northern Italy for the United States this weekend, after it was confirmed that he will be in attendance at the graduation of his eldest son, Benedict.

A Mercedes spokesperson has confirmed to GPFans that Wolff will be replaced in the Silver Arrows garage by chief communications officer, Bradley Lord, who also stepped in to assume responsibilities in Suzuka.

Antonelli in home race for Mercedes

Wolff's absence won't take the gloss off what promises to be a memorable few days for Kimi Antonelli, who is gearing up for his first race outing in front of his home fans on Sunday.

The rookie took over from seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton ahead of the 2025 campaign, and despite concerns over his lack of experience behind the wheel, has made an impressive start.

The 18-year-old currently occupies sixth spot in the drivers' standings - one place better off than Hamilton - and secured his first pole position for the sprint race in Miami.

Both Antonelli and team-mate George Russell head to Imola off the back of a positive weekend in Miami last time out as Mercedes' impressive early season form continued.

The former secured his first pole in F1, qualifying top of the pile for Saturday's sprint race, while Russell delivered a fourth podium finish in six outings during Sunday's main event.

Mercedes find themselves second in the constructors' championship, sandwiched between runaway leaders McLaren and Red Bull.

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