In a whirlwind of raw emotion, high-octane drama, and a triumphant return to form, the Canadian Grand Prix delivered a spectacle that had Formula 1 fans on the edge of their seats. Mercedes, the Silver Arrows, roared back to glory with a stunning 1-2 finish led by George Russell and rookie sensation Andrea Kimi Antonelli, marking their first victory of the 2025 season. But it was Lewis Hamilton’s six-word message to his former team that ignited a firestorm of gratitude, camaraderie, and an unexpected moment of vulnerability that left the seven-time world champion floored. Toto Wolff, the stoic Mercedes team principal, delivered a heartfelt response that no one saw coming — least of all Hamilton himself.

As the chequered flag waved in Montreal, the Mercedes garage erupted in jubilation. George Russell, the 27-year-old Brit, clinched his second career win, fending off a fierce challenge from McLaren’s Lando Norris and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen. Right behind him, 18-year-old Andrea Kimi Antonelli, the Italian prodigy who replaced Hamilton at Mercedes, secured his maiden podium in only his ninth F1 race. The team’s first 1-2 since 2022 was a testament to their relentless pursuit of excellence after a challenging start to the 2025 campaign. But amidst the champagne showers and team hugs, a message from Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton stole the spotlight.

Hamilton posted on X, his six words carrying the weight of 12 years of shared triumphs, six drivers’ championships, and 84 race wins with the Brackley squad. The message was a classy nod to his former team, despite his move to Ferrari at the end of 2024. Hamilton’s words didn’t go unnoticed, and the responses from Russell, Antonelli, and especially Toto Wolff painted a picture of a bond that transcends team rivalries.

George Russell, still buzzing from his victory, was quick to reply.

he wrote on X, accompanied by a silver arrow emoji. The 27-year-old, now the de facto team leader at Mercedes, has often spoken of Hamilton’s mentorship during their time as teammates. Russell’s gratitude was palpable, a reminder of the respect that still exists between the two Brits despite their competitive paths diverging.

Andrea Kimi Antonelli, the teenage sensation who stepped into Hamilton’s colossal shoes, was equally touched.

the 18-year-old posted, his words reflecting the awe he holds for the man whose legacy he’s tasked with upholding. Antonelli’s P2 finish in Canada was a statement of intent, proving that Mercedes’ faith in the young Italian was well-placed. His response to Hamilton underscored the reverence he has for the seven-time champion, even as he carves his own path.

But it was Toto Wolff’s reaction that turned heads and tugged at heartstrings. The Austrian, known for his steely resolve and analytical demeanor, revealed a softer side in a post-race interview with Sky Sports F1. When asked about Hamilton’s message, Wolff’s eyes softened, and his voice carried a rare warmth. “Lewis, you know, he’s family. Always will be,” Wolff began, pausing as if to gather his thoughts. “I saw his message, and it hit me hard. He didn’t have to do that, but that’s who he is — pure class. I know he’s struggling at Ferrari right now, finding his feet with that car. But I told him,

Wolff’s words were a bombshell, leaving Hamilton visibly stunned when he was shown the clip during Ferrari’s post-race debrief. Sources close to the team say Hamilton, who finished a disappointing P7 in Canada, was “speechless” and “deeply moved” by Wolff’s public show of faith. The 40-year-old has endured a rocky start to his Ferrari tenure, with only one podium — a Sprint win in China — to his name in 2025. Adapting to the SF-25 has been a challenge, and teammate Charles Leclerc has consistently outpaced him. Wolff’s encouragement, delivered in his trademark blend of sincerity and conviction, was a reminder of the unbreakable bond forged over a decade of dominance.

“Lews and Toto, they’re like father and son in some ways,” a Mercedes insider told us. “Toto’s always believed in Lewis, even when things got tough. That message in Canada? It was Toto saying, ‘I’m rooting for you, even if you’re in red now.’ It hit Lewis right in the feels.”

The Canadian Grand Prix itself was a masterclass in strategy and resilience from Mercedes. Russell seized pole position in a rain-soaked qualifying, edging out Verstappen by a mere 0.002 seconds. The race was a chaotic affair, with fluctuating weather conditions and a late Safety Car shaking up the order. Russell’s composure under pressure and Antonelli’s fearless overtaking — including a daring move on Ferrari’s Leclerc — secured the team’s first victory since Brazil 2022. For Wolff, it was vindication of the team’s bold decision to pair an experienced driver like Russell with a rookie like Antonelli.

“George was phenomenal, and Kimi? My God, that kid’s special,” Wolff gushed post-race. “This win is for everyone at Brackley and Brixworth who’s been working their hearts out. And yeah, I know Lewis was watching. I hope he’s proud of what we’re building here.”

Hamilton’s own race was less triumphant. Starting P10 after a lackluster qualifying, he clawed his way to P7, salvaging points for Ferrari but falling short of the podium he craved. His struggles have sparked whispers in the paddock about whether the move to Ferrari was a mistake. But Wolff’s words in Canada were a timely reminder of Hamilton’s resilience. “Lewis has been through tougher times,” Wolff added. “He’s not just a driver; he’s a fighter. Ferrari’s lucky to have him, and they’ll see the best of him soon.”

Fans on X were quick to weigh in on the emotional exchange. “Toto’s got me crying in the club,” one user posted, while another wrote, “Lewis and Mercedes will always be iconic. This is what F1’s about.” The mutual respect between Hamilton and his former team resonated deeply, cutting through the tribalism of team loyalties.

As the F1 circus moves to Spain, all eyes will be on Hamilton to turn his season around. Ferrari’s upgrades for the SF-25 are rumored to suit his driving style better, and a strong result could silence the doubters. Meanwhile, Mercedes will aim to build on their Canadian momentum, with Russell and Antonelli emerging as a potent duo. Wolff, ever the strategist, will no doubt keep a close eye on Hamilton’s progress, quietly cheering for the man who defined an era for Mercedes’ resurgence has been the talk of the season, and with Wolff at the helm, the Silver Arrows are soaring once more. But it’s clear that, for Toto, Lewis Hamilton will always hold a special place in his heart.

In a sport where rivalries reign supreme, the Canadian Grand Prix reminded us that some bonds are fought not on the track, but in the heart. Hamilton’s six-word message was a spark, Russell and Antonelli’s replies were fuel, and Wolff’s heartfelt response was the blaze that lit up Formula 1. As Hamilton himself said on X later that night, “Love and respect always.” And in Montreal, that love shone brighter than ever.