P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Lewis Hamilton has revealed who he would replace himself with at Mercedes, with who will get the seat alongside George Russell next season still undetermined.
Lewis Hamilton has informed Toto Wolff about who he believes should take his place at Mercedes for the upcoming season. Hamilton announced earlier this year that he will be leaving Mercedes for Ferrari after 12 successful seasons. Several names have been floating around as potential replacements for Hamilton, including Max Verstappen, Carlos Sainz, Fernando Alonso, and Alexander Albon. Max Verstappen has emerged as a strong candidate, despite having a contract with Red Bull until 2028. Hamilton suggests a Mercedes junior and current F2 driver, Kimi Antonelli, as a possible replacement. Realistically, the options for Mercedes seem to have narrowed down to Carlos Sainz and Kimi Antonelli for the next season. Sainz is reportedly considering an offer from Mercedes, while Antonelli could potentially make a Russell-esque debut with Williams in F1. Hamilton views Sainz as a valuable driver and believes he will shine wherever he goes next season.
