What did Toto Wolff say about the Epstein files? Mercedes boss slams “bullshit” claims

Toto Wolff was already in combative form at Formula 1’s preseason testing in Bahrain, but a throwaway line referencing the Epstein files quickly shifted the spotlight.

The Mercedes team principal was fielding questions about rumors surrounding the team’s new engine and sustainable fuel when he lashed out at what he described as “utter bullshit” speculation. Then came the remark he appeared to instantly regret.

Why is Mercedes under scrutiny?

Formula 1 enters a new regulatory era this season, including revised power unit rules and the introduction of 100% sustainable fuel. Mercedes has been at the center of two controversies.

1. Compression ratio rumors - Rival teams have suggested Mercedes may have found a way to run an 18:1 compression ratio rather than the 16:1 permitted under regulations, potentially delivering a significant power advantage.
2. Fuel approval speculation - Reports have circulated that Petronas’ new sustainable fuel has not yet received full FIA homologation approval.

Both claims have fueled paddock whispers that Mercedes could hold an early-season advantage or face regulatory headaches. And Wolff was having none of it.

Toto Wolff’s Epstein files comment

Speaking at the official FIA press conference in Bahrain, Wolff made a regrettable comparison when touching on the topic.

“We were told compression ratio is something that we were illegal on, which is total bullshit, utter bullshit. Now the next story comes out that our fuel is illegal. I don’t know where that comes from, and it starts spinning again. Maybe tomorrow we invented something else … I don’t know, I’ve been on the Epstein files.”

The reference drew visible discomfort in the room. Wolff appeared to realize the misstep almost immediately, adding that he was too young to be involved, which did not help.

When challenged, he added simply, “I must not say that, yeah.” You think? Linking media speculation about Mercedes to the ongoing release of files connected to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, is widely being viewed as tacky and ill-judged.

Wolff’s intent appeared to be sarcasm, suggesting that new rumors surface daily, escalating in absurdity. But invoking the Epstein files, associated with serious criminal investigations, shifted attention away from Mercedes’ technical defense and toward the remark itself. He later described the compression ratio debate as a “storm in a teacup.”

Is Mercedes actually in trouble?

At present, there is no indication that Mercedes has been found in breach of regulations. The FIA has circulated a vote among manufacturers regarding potential changes to how compression ratios are measured, including testing at 130°C rather than under ambient conditions. However, Mercedes is understood to have designed its engine to comply with the current wording of the rules.

As for the fuel approval process, homologation is handled through third-party verification and is considered complex given this is Formula 1’s first season running fully sustainable fuels.

Testing times in Bahrain have been inconclusive, with Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull all showing competitive long-run pace. As is typical during preseason, teams may be concealing true performance levels.

Related stories

F1

Aston Martin pushes... until power unit issues resurface

F1

Red Bull chief designer resigns

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.