Sebastian Vettel is rumored as a potential replacement for Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes next season. This news has caused a lot of excitement in the Formula 1 driver market, as many drivers are eager to join the Silver Arrows. Vettel, a four-time world champion, is considered one of the main contenders for Hamilton’s seat. However, former Formula 1 champion Damon Hill has expressed doubts about the German driver.
Hill praised Vettel’s early career in Formula 1, but believes that after joining Ferrari, the sport became more like a job for him. Because of this, Hill does not think it would be a good idea for Mercedes to take a risk by hiring Vettel as the team leader. Despite this, there have been indications that Vettel could join the Brackley team. Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff stated that Vettel is in a strong position to replace Hamilton.
Vettel’s performance at Aston Martin in recent years has been disappointing. Hill believes that something happened to Vettel that led to his retirement in 2022. He also acknowledges that Vettel’s performance declined in his final years in the sport. According to Hill, Vettel was no longer the dominant force he once was.
Vettel himself fueled rumors of his return by revealing that he has been in contact with Mercedes’ Toto Wolff. He has been keeping up to date with everything happening in the Formula 1 paddock and has expressed that his return to Formula 1 would depend on the overall package offered to him.
Despite his retirement, Vettel jokes that he still feels young compared to other drivers on the grid. Veterans like Hamilton and Alonso continue to race, and age is not a limitation for Vettel. If he were to return, he would not be the oldest driver on the grid.
Mercedes could benefit greatly from Vettel’s return considering his successful career in Formula 1. However, he would need to adapt quickly after a two-year break from the sport. The final decision on whether Vettel will make a shocking return to Formula 1 next season will be made by Mercedes in the coming weeks.
