Could Hamilton be joining Ferrari early?

By Joe Murphy

Esteban Ocon can have a role in Mercedes’ plan to replace Lewis Hamilton, it has been claimed.

Alpine driver Ocon is a former Mercedes reserve driver and retains links to Toto Wolff’s team. It is said the relationship is still good, despite the Frenchman racing at Alpine. With the French Constructor struggling at the moment, you’d think it’s a give that Ocon would make the switch.

Betting odds shortening suggest that Ocon could fill in for Hamilton in an interim sort of role. It is reported that Ocon has an exit clause in his contract too.

This would enable Lewis Hamilton to switch to Ferrari as currently the only thing stopping him is Mercedes. If Ferrari were to buy out Sainz’ contract, they could get Lewis in straight away.

The big loser would be Carlos Sainz who has been outstanding so far this campaign. With no other option available, Sainz would either have to join Alpine to stay in F1 or leave the sport, in this scenario.

It most likely won’t happen but for sure, it’s becoming an intriguing possibility. There is the thought that Hamilton and Sainz in particular aren’t fully settled or committed to the team projects they are currently invoked in, considering they won’t be there in nine month’s time.