Fernando Alonso is the oldest driver on the current grid. (AFP Photo)
If a big name signing is what Mercedes are on the lookout for, they needn’t look any further than 42-year-old Alonso. And the Spaniard is just as aware about the influence he holds.
The departure of Lewis Hamilton from Mercedes has dominated the headlines all over. With Ferrari now locking in their drivers for the 2025 season, the big question arises: who will replace Hamilton in Mercedes?
And one name that has arisen amongst the select few is none other than former World Champion Fernando Alonso, who currently plies his trade for Aston Martin.
If a big name signing is what Mercedes are on the lookout for, they needn’t look any further than 42-year-old Alonso. And the Spaniard is just as aware about the influence he holds.
Alonso, ahead of Aston Martin’s launch of their new team car AMR24, spoke to reporters about the ‘unique’ position he is currently poised at.
“I am aware of my situation, which is very unique. There are only three world champions on the grid and I am the only one available for 2025, so I am in a good position.
“On a move to Mercedes, there has been nothing at all. I know the driver market has started earlier this year, but this will not affect me in terms of preparing for the season.
Alonso reiterated his commitment to Aston Martin, dismissing talks of retirement and a possible switch at the end of the upcoming season at least for the near future.
“If I want to keep racing beyond this year, the first and only talk at the beginning will be Aston Martin. I trust this project and that will be my first priority.
“But if we cannot reach an agreement I know that I am attractive to other teams. I will not stay in Formula One just to have fun. I am not that kind of person and not that kind of driver. Let’s see what the options are.”
When asked about the shock move of Hamilton to Ferrari, Alonso who drove for the Italian outlet for four years admitted that he was surprised.
“It was a surprise, I will not lie, not because of the change itself but from the outside it seemed like he was very linked to Mercedes and very loyal to Mercedes.
“Ferrari is a special team but it is more special when you win. Maybe Lewis can bring that extra fight for the championship because the car is there.”
The void that Hamilton leaves behind in Mercedes is as big as his decorated legacy with the team, as Toto Wolff now deals with the tricky decision of figuring out who to pair with fellow driver George Russell in 2025.
With big names such as the likes of Lando Norris, Charles Leclerc, Max Verstappen all signing multi-year deals with their respective teams, Mercedes are now tasked with looking out for yet another potential superstar to fill the shoes.
(with inputs from agencies)
