P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has indicated he is prepared to risk missing out on Carlos Sainz to Audi in order to assess how the 2025 Formula 1 driver market develops. The German marque is weighing up the available options to partner George Russell next season amid Lewis Hamilton’s decision to leave to pursue a switch […]
Mercedes is considering several options to partner George Russell next season following Lewis Hamilton’s decision to leave for Ferrari. Toto Wolff expressed interest in pursuing Max Verstappen from Red Bull, though the Dutch driver is committed to staying. Carlos Sainz has emerged as a top choice after Ferrari announced Hamilton as his replacement, with Sauber also vying for his signature alongside Audi. Sainz has a deadline to respond to Audi’s offer, prompting Mercedes to consider other alternatives, such as developing young talent like Andrea Kimi Antonelli. Despite the hype, Wolff cautions against rushing Antonelli’s F1 debut, emphasizing the need for patience and giving him time to excel in Formula 2. Mercedes is in no rush to make a decision on the driver lineup and is open to waiting to see how the situation unfolds.
