According to Italy’s Gazzetta dello Sport, Carlos Sainz has been picked by Mercedes to replace Lewis Hamilton in the coveted seat beginning in 2025.
According to the Italian newspaper, Sainz has signed a two-year contract with the Brackley squad, where he will race with George Russell in 2025 and 2026.
The speculation comes after Aston Martin announced on Thursday that Fernando Alonso will continue with the Silverstone-based team until at least 2026.
The Spaniard’s signing was the first domino to fall in a driver market that was ignited at the start of the 2024 Formula One season by Hamilton’s intention to join Ferrari next year, at the expense of Sainz.
Alonso was connected to Mercedes’ vacant seat, which was/is
Andrea Kimi Antonelli is the team’s protégé, and team boss Toto Wolff recently labeled him as the driver in the “strongest position” to follow Hamilton.
However, it looks natural that Mercedes would prefer Antonelli to begin his F1 career with Williams, its engine customer, possibly as early as 2025.
Many commentators have regarded Sainz’s potential switch to Mercedes as a no-brainer, considering the Ferrari charger’s strong track record this season.
The 29-year-old has finished on the podium in each of the three races he has contested this season. Notably, he won convincingly in Melbourne barely two weeks after undergoing surgery for appendicitis, which had kept him out of the Saudi Grand Prix.
Beyond his raw speed, Sainz boasts attributes that Mercedes values greatly. He’s recognized as a team player who prioritizes team success over personal glory.