Wolff on Cullen departure: 'When something doesn't work anymore, you have to be honest'

Why Hamilton and Cullen are no longer working together is as yet unclear. Team boss Toto Wolff was therefore asked to shed some light at a press conference. "I don't know what has been announced", the Mercedes boss said. "Angela was part of the game for a long time. I think in every team whether that is closed circle or also wider group, this is not a starting situation you can freeze. We all develop as people and as an organization, if things don't work out anymore then we need to be honest about it."

Changes needed

Wolff continued: "Then bring change. Angela has, and always will be a mascot of the team. If this is what he decides, then we will always support him in whatever direction he wants to take."

In a post on Instagram earlier in the day, Hamilton thanked his former confidant. He wrote then: "For the last seven years Angela has been by my side, pushing me to be the best version of myself. I am a stronger athlete and a better person because of her. So today I hope you’ll join me in wishing her the very best as she takes her next steps to pursue her dreams. Thank you for everything Ang, I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for you."