Oscar Piastri (AUS) McLaren MCL38. 05.04.2024. Formula 1 World Championship, Rd 4, Japanese Grand Prix, Suzuka, Japan, Practice Day
The head of Mercedes, Toto Wolff, acknowledges that Sebastian Vettel is a potential candidate for the team’s open Formula 1 position in 2025. Vettel chose to retire at the end of 2022 in order to spend more time with his loved ones and due to his disagreement with the sport’s approach to sustainability. However, there have been suggestions that Vettel may follow in the footsteps of Fernando Alonso and make a comeback. In recent interviews, Vettel has expressed his consideration of returning to F1 depending on the available opportunities. Additionally, Vettel has revealed that he has been in contact with his longtime associate, Mercedes chief Wolff, since the announcement of Lewis Hamilton’s departure from the team. Hamilton, who will join Ferrari in 2025, has expressed his support for Vettel as his replacement, praising his extensive experience. Speaking at the Japanese Grand Prix, Wolff confirmed that Vettel is considering a return to racing and that his chances should not be dismissed. When asked about the possibility of Vettel partnering with George Russell next season, Wolff responded positively, highlighting Vettel’s impressive track record and the benefits of taking a break to reassess one’s priorities and rediscover motivation.
Wolff has stated that Max Verstappen is his top priority if the tension within Red Bull leads to the reigning champion becoming available. Carlos Sainz, the winner of the Australian Grand Prix, has expressed his desire to expedite discussions about his future in Formula 1, and Wolff has hinted that there may be some movement in that regard. He acknowledged that the driver market is constantly changing, with talented drivers signing for other teams. However, Wolff emphasized that it is too early for Mercedes to commit to a driver at this stage. He mentioned that the next few months will provide more clarity. In addition to Verstappen, Wolff has mentioned that Mercedes is considering Andrea Kimi Antonelli, a Formula 2 driver and Mercedes protege, as well as Sainz and Fernando Alonso. When asked if Mercedes has narrowed down the candidates to a shortlist, Wolff confirmed that they have. Previously, there were rumors of Sebastian Vettel joining Mercedes to form a strong lineup with Lewis Hamilton, but those reports were dismissed by Valtteri Bottas. Instead, Vettel signed with Aston Martin and achieved one podium finish and consecutive seventh-place finishes in the Constructors’ Championship.