Wolff and Lauda have no interest in Bernie’s job

Lauda (R) can't shine Ecclestone's shoes

Niki Lauda has rubbished speculation that Toto Wolff is being lined up to succeed Bernie Ecclestone as F1 supremo.

The Mercedes motorsport boss is reportedly one of the frontrunners with F1's new owners, Liberty Media, to replace Ecclestone when the 85-year-old steps down.

That could be in three years as Ecclestone has confirmed that is the duration of his contract with the new owners.

However, Lauda, a non-executive chairman at Mercedes, reckons Wolff is unlikely to walk away from Mercedes.

"I doubt it because we are busy with our work here at Mercedes," the Austrian told Press Association Sport.

"We have contracts, so there is no interest at all."

As for Ecclestone, Lauda says it is good for Formula 1 that he is staying on for now.

"Thank God Bernie stays to give us a proper transition which I think is the most important thing," he added.

"The way it is handled until now is very good. This Liberty Media group, I know where they are coming from, and it is good for Formula One."