Former World Champion in talks with Mercedes!

By Joe Murphy

It is being reported that Mercedes have opened talks with a former Formula 1 World Champion, over the vacant seat that 2025 currently has in store. Whilst many expect either Alex Albon or Carlos Sainz to simply come in and replace Lewis Hamilton, it could be a huge move for one former icon of the sport.

The name hasn’t officially been revealed but indirectly it’s easy to see who it is. Nico Rosberg, whilst having a great affiliation with the team, is way too rusty to come back in and do a job. Near to a decade away from the sport rules him out. Kimi Raikkonen is also done and that move wouldn’t make sense.

That only leaves Sebastian Vettel or Fernando Alonso. Alonso would have ties to cut with Aston Martin and there is also said to be more obstacles to signing the Spaniard. That means, in all likelihood, it’s the German four-time World Champion who has been on the phone to Toto Wolff.

Would Seb be interested in a move? Almost certainly. He didn’t officially retire a couple of years ago, instead phrasing his hiatus as a ‘break’ to spend time with his family. Moreover, he himself has repeatedly said on record to “never say never” to a return. A competitive car might just be incentive enough to see Vettel back on the grid next season.

Whether it’s the move Mercedes should make, is a different question. One thing is for certain, it would certainly be a spectacle and a huge coup for the Silver Arrows.