'Mercedes completely surprised by Hamilton: Wolff not present at meeting'

Mercedes are also surprised by Lewis Hamilton's departure. This is evidenced by the absence of Toto Wolff, who was not physically at the Brackley factory, according to Sky Sports.

Mercedes employees were told at the factory on Thursday afternoon that Lewis Hamilton is going to Ferrari. The surprise was unexpected not only for media and fans but also for Mercedes themselves. Toto Wolff, for instance, was not even physically present at the meeting in Brackley. The Mercedes team boss and CEO phoned in.

Mercedes' sudden meeting and phone-in also goes to show how quickly the ball got rolling. First reports emerged in the Italian media on Thursday morning, possibly before Hamilton and his team made this known to Mercedes. At 19:00 UK time/20:00 CET, Mercedes will come out with a statement.