Fernando Alonso is emerging as a likely candidate to fill the vacancy at Mercedes after Lewis Hamilton’s departure, as suggested by recent speculations.
The possibility of Alonso stepping into the role has garnered significant attention, with Mercedes’ team principal Toto Wolff open to various options.
As Lewis Hamilton plans to join Ferrari following the 2024 season, Mercedes is on the lookout for a new driver to take over. The seven-time world champion’s exit creates a significant opportunity at the team’s headquarters in Brackley.
In the wake of this news, the racing community has been abuzz with speculation about potential replacements. Fernando Alonso, currently with Aston Martin, has been identified as a strong contender for the position.
Reports from F1 Insider highlight Alonso’s keen observation of the racing landscape, indicating his active interest in securing a seat with Mercedes for 2025. With a history of strategic moves within the sport, Alonso appears to be positioning himself as a prime candidate for the opening
Flavio Briatore, Alonso’s agent, played a pivotal role in Alonso’s transition to Aston Martin at the close of the 2022 season.
Given Briatore’s extensive network and influence in Formula 1, orchestrating a move to Mercedes could be a seamless process. Alonso’s current contract with Aston Martin is due to conclude at the end of the season, timing perfectly with the vacancy at Mercedes.
Despite Aston Martin’s desire to retain the driver, Alonso’s future may lie elsewhere.
Alonso’s performance in the 2023 season was notably impressive, finishing with 206 points, just behind Hamilton and ahead of George Russell, enhancing his suitability for the role at Mercedes.
While there’s speculation about Alonso’s potential inclusion in Toto Wolff’s considerations, it’s suggested that, although not confirmed, his candidacy is becoming increasingly probable.
This scenario unfolds as the motorsport world closely watches the developments, anticipating Alonso’s possible move to Mercedes, which would mark a significant shift in the team’s dynamics post-Hamilton era.
In light of recent events, Motorsport-Magazin, a German publication, approached Mercedes Team Principal, Toto Wolff, for insights into who might be selected to fill the upcoming vacancy.
Wolff conveyed his astonishment regarding Hamilton’s unforeseen choice, stating: “I wouldn’t have thought that Lewis would tell me that he was going to drive for Ferrari next year.”
This development seems to have steered Wolff towards a practical approach, acknowledging the inherent unpredictability of the sport, as he went on to say:
“And if at some point a driver says he doesn’t want to drive anymore, there is little remedy for it. That’s why I wouldn’t rule anything out, no one at any time.
“We will always strive to have the best possible driver combination in our car and look for each and every one of these conversations.”
Wolff stressed the importance of finding the best possible driver lineup for the team, pointing out the active discussions and the possibility of swift changes in the situation.
He also noted the significance of honoring current agreements, summarizing his point by stating:
“You can see how quickly a situation can change. At the same time, of course, we respect contracts that exist.
“Drivers will always want to sit in the fastest car.”
