The Mercedes Team, led by Toto Wolff, is determined to bounce back from their recent struggles. Despite Lewis Hamilton’s underwhelming performance and a series of issues with their W15 project, they are committed to finding the best replacement for the Ferrari-bound driver. Since their last world championship triumph in 2020, the Silver Arrows have faced challenges but are not giving up. Moreover, the team has not won a race since 2022 but is working hard to change that.
Until now, in 2024, the turbulence continues as none of their drivers have finished in the top five. Both Hamilton and Russell are deranged with the F1 project as the car ‘lacks pace.’ Hamilton has suggested that Mercedes should accept the reality that its F1 car is far behind that of its competitors. Therefore, finding a partner for Russell is not the only challenge for the Brackley-based outfit, as they need to fix the underlying technical issues.
Max Verstappen On The Priority List As Mercedes Monitors Potential Options
The only time Mercedes and Red Bull locked horns for the world championship was at the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Max Verstappen was crowned the world champion in a controversial decision, securing his first title. At that time, the idea of Verstappen joining the Mercedes team seemed far-fetched. Fast forward to 2024, with a hattrick of world titles, he has become a top priority for Mercedes. Toto Wolff, a keen observer of Verstappen’s exceptional performance on the track, openly expresses his interest in recruiting the reigning world champion. Since the news of Hamilton’s move to Ferrari, Wolff has been closely monitoring the internal dynamics at Milton Keynes. He eagerly awaits the right moment to make a move for the Dutchman.
Meanwhile, the Mercedes Principal is monitoring other drivers who could replace Hamilton. The next name is Carlos Sainz. The Ferrari driver has had a great season thus far. With an Australian GP to his name, Sainz brings experience. Moreover, Hamilton will replace him next season, so the Spaniard will not have a drive in 2025. Wolff would want someone as experienced as Sainz to drive for them. Apart from Verstappen and Sainz, Mercedes might go for the Italian prodigy Kimi Antonelli. The young, fierce driver is a part of the Mercedes driving program, and Wolff is investing in his talent. However, until an official confirmation, the musical chairs of F1 drivers will continue.
Verstappen Backs Mintzlaff Publicly While Exploring Options Behind The Doors
As the battle to secure Verstappen intensified, a verbal confrontation between Mercedes’ team principal, Toto Wolff, and Red Bull MD Oliver Mintzlaff unfolded. Mintzlaff recently schooled Wolf for his comments on Verstappen. He professed that trying to lure in a driver with a long-term contract is disrespectful. Moreover, he advised Wolff to focus on their team as they are lagging.
On the other hand, Toto Wolff retaliated to the criticism, saying that he didn’t understand what the Red Bull owner was trying to convey. Also, talking about Verstappen’s certainty at Red Bull, he said life is unpredictable. Therefore, the entire episode of verbal exchange increases the heat at the paddock.
