Mercedes Chief Shoots Down Lewis Hamilton Replacement Rumours: "Complete S**t!"
Mercedes, a powerhouse in the world of Formula 1, is currently in a sticky situation. The W14 has been performing poorly, and the team is at risk of losing its star driver, Lewis Hamilton. Hamilton, at 38 years old, is eyeing an eighth world championship title that would solidify his status as the greatest of all time. But rumours have started swirling of a replacement for the Brit. Toto Wolff speaks out.
Hamilton's future has been the subject of much speculation in recent times. Last year, rumors circulated that he might retire from the sport altogether, but he quickly put them to bed. Now, the narrative has shifted to Hamilton leaving Mercedes for a new challenge at Ferrari. This has left Mercedes team principal, Toto Wolff, under a bit of tension with him not only needing to promise the driver enough money to keep him interested, but a fast car to match.
Recently, rumors circulated that Sergio Perez might be in line to replace Hamilton at Mercedes. Toto Wolff quickly shot these down:
“It’s complete sh*t. I’ve never called Sergio [Perez]. He’s a good guy and I respect him, but I’ve never spoken to him and I haven’t been in contact with any other rider.”
Despite the disappointment of the first two races of the season, Hamilton remains committed to the Mercedes team.
“Lewis and I, even faced with a not very encouraging scenario like the beginning of this season, are always aligned in wanting to try to improve things and in wanting to be together next year.”
It's clear that Hamilton wants to win an eighth title, but is staying at Mercedes the best way to achieve that? With the Brackley team promising a huge upgrade for Baku, it's possible that they've found some performance somewhere in their W14 design. But Wolff will have to prove that they're fighting hard and that this fighting will result in wins very soon for Lewis to remain.