Mercedes not ruling out Vettel bid, says Wolff

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff said on Friday he would not rule out recruiting retired Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel to replace the departing Lewis Hamilton next season.

Mercedes GP Executive Director Toto Wolff attends the Team Principals Press Conference during practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Japan. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff said on Friday he would not rule out recruiting retired Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel to replace the departing Lewis Hamilton next season.

Vettel, 36, has said he was potentially in the market for a 2025 comeback and was talking to Wolff and others. Hamilton, who is joining Ferrari, said on Thursday the German driver would be an amazing option for the German manufacturer.

“Sebastian is someone that you can never discount,” Wolff told reporters, when asked whether he would be interested in the four-time world champion.

READ | F1: Hamilton’s early season engine woes spell trouble for his Mercedes swan song

“I think his track record is phenomenal. And sometimes maybe taking a break is also good to re-evaluate what’s important for you and refine your motivation.”

While Wolff said he had a shortlist of drivers in mind, a decision was not imminent.

“At that stage, I think it’s much too early for us to commit to a driver, whether very young or whether very experienced ... the next few months will give us more clues.”