Formula 1: 5 replacement candidates for Sebastian Vettel in 2021
By Asher Fair
Lewis Hamilton
In this day and age, it’s impossible not to mention Lewis Hamilton as a possible future candidate to drive for Ferrari when discussing his future and that of the team.
Hamilton, now a six-time champion, has not ruled out joining the Scuderia, and his contract with Mercedes expires at the end of the 2020 season after he signed a two-year contract extension back in July of 2018.
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The 34-year-old Briton is the only one of five drivers who have won at least four world championships to never drive for Ferrari, but even Mercedes have admitted that they are prepared if he does opt to leave the Silver Arrows for Ferrari after the 2020 season.
With the new budget cap set to be introduced ahead of the 2021 season and driver salaries not included in that cap, the current top-tier teams should still theoretically be in position to get the best results since they can offer the top drivers higher pay for their services. Would Hamilton really leave Ferrari if he is offered a deal he can’t refuse?
Mercedes CEO and team principal Toto Wolff has already said that there are several drivers who he has his eye on to take Hamilton’s place, and the rumors of Hamilton leaving the team have only continued to heat up in recent weeks.
Could that mean Mercedes won’t push as hard to retain him as they would have even just a few years ago if Ferrari do come through with that attractive offer?
Top 10 Formula 1 drivers of all-time. dark. Next
Who will replace Sebastian Vettel at Ferrari provided he remains with the team for the 2020 Formula 1 season but is released once his contract expires ahead of 2021?