Wolff in a 'happy place' at Mercedes - dismisses departure rumors

Toto Wolff says he hasn't "contemplated" a departure from Mercedes beyond 2020, dismissing as pure speculation reports that he could succeed CEO Chase Carey at the helm of F1.

Earlier this week, rumors emerged that Liberty Media was considering Wolff as a potential candidate to replace Carey, F1's current top executive, when the American relinquishes his role at the end of 2020.

The Mercedes boss dismissed the rumors however, insisting the German manufacturer is likely to remain in F1 beyond 2021 and so is he.

Wolff seen as potential candidate for F1 CEO role

"There's so much speculation going on out there and I have not a normal role in Mercedes," said Wolff in Barcelona.

"I am in a super situation. I'm a shareholder in the team, I love to be with the people, the relationships matter to me.

"I'm in a happy place, motivated every single day I do this. There's some more years into my current contract and I think with all the other discussions you're having, with drivers for example, I think you need to be 100% with your head in your role.

"This is what I am. I haven't contemplated any change beyond 2020."

Mercedes' involvement in Formula E and the uncertainty surrounding F1's future regulation platform are seen as potential catalysts for the manufacturer's migration away from Grand Prix racing.

But Wolff believes that's an unlikely prospect.

"Honestly, where I am, I feel in a good place," he added.

"Mercedes hasn't given any indication they plan to stop the programme. On the contrary, we're having really open-minded discussions about what the benefits are.

"In 10 years, the whole auto industry might be different, then fully-electric and in a different place.

"I don't want to give a commitment of where we are in 10 years but I can say in the short-to-mid-term, Formula 1 makes a lot of sense to Mercedes."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.