F1 News
Who will replace Hamilton at Mercedes? This is what Toto Wolff says
After last summer, Toto Wolff assumed he would not have to answer any more questions about who the drivers of his Mercedes would be for some time. Finally, George Russell and Lewis Hamilton were fixed for some years. But after the latter's suddenly announced departure, the team boss still has to look for a newcomer. Options are aplenty, the Austrian believes.
In any case, the good news for Wolff: George Russell does remain at Mercedes. If it is up to the team boss, a bright future lies ahead for the Brit. Indeed, according to him, Russell has "the potential to be [the] next lead driver," as he is a "such a quick and talented and intelligent guy in the car."
Wolff also frankly admits that the moment Hamilton terminated his contract came at an unfortunate time. Wolff says he had definitely looked at drivers whose commitments had just been renewed in recent weeks. Without naming names, it is clear that Charles Leclerc and Lando Norris are being referred to. Without this pair on the market, the availability is already a lot thinner. Therefore, Wolff does not rule out doing "something bold".
Is Antonelli an option for Mercedes?
A truly remarkable move would be to put Andrea Kimi Antonelli in the car; the Italian is making his debut in Formula 2 next season. He is part of the Mercedes Academy. "He’s been in the junior programme and his career was very successful," Wolff said according to The Race. "If we start to spin his mind or unleash rumours that’s not going to help his F2 campaign. He’s just stepped out of karts a few years ago. He’s not even 18. I would rather not speculation about Kimi going into F1 at this stage."