Mercedes have been told to partner George Russell with his ‘best mate’ after Lewis Hamilton’s exit for Ferrari.
After Lewis Hamilton, 39, completes his sensational switch to Ferrari for the 2025 season, Mercedes is being urged to name Alex Albon as his replacement. George Russell needs a new teammate at the Silver Arrows, and a number of drivers have already been linked to the second seat.
Mercedes announced on Thursday night that Hamilton had activated a clause in his two-year contract that stipulates he can end it at the end of 2024. Hamilton signed the contract last year.
Later, Ferrari declared that they and the seven-time world champion had reached an agreement on a multi-year contract. The driver will start alongside Charles Leclerc in 2025.
The shocking news was discussed by the Sky Sports F1 team, and four pundits named their top choice to replace Hamilton at Mercedes.
While Martin Brundle believes that Toto Wolff will be keeping an eye on the Thai-British racer, Natalie Pinkham wants to see Alex Albon move from Williams to a more competitive car.
“I hope Alex Albon gets to go in there. I believe he is deserving. Going to Williams, in my opinion, was fantastic for his career and gave him more confidence,” Pinkham said.
It’s time to move back toward the front of the grid now. Recall that Alex and George are best friends.”
Brundle continued, “They’ll be considering Esteban Ocon, who is a member of the Mercedes family, as well as Fernando Alonso and Alex Albon.
“Alpine is sort of borrowing this guy. They must include Carlos Sainz in their list. That, I believe, is the shortlist.
Meanwhile, Karun Chandhok is eager for Oscar Piastri, Lando Norris’ McLaren teammate, or Carlos Sainz, who is losing his Ferrari seat to Hamilton, to have an opportunity alongside Russell.
Oscar Piastri or Carlos Sainz would be nice to see. “I believe we already know that Oscar has a contract with McLaren,” Chandhok said.
“However, Mark Webber has a lot of experience negotiating contracts, so I’m sure there must be a way out.
“There’s an escape somewhere, as Lewis has shown us. The first Oscar season was outstanding. Without a doubt, his race pace was one of his weaknesses, but he still has another year to improve.
“The pairing of George and Oscar is excellent. Whether you believe it’s a better bet is the key. Lewis used a works team in 2014, and with the new engine formula arriving in 2026, I would prefer to use one as well.
In addition to Damon Hill, who is on the show, Hill thinks that whoever takes Hamilton’s place, Russell will be sure he can become Mercedes’ best driver without the legendary Brit.
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