McLaren driver already getting buzz as a possible replaced for Hamilton as early as 2024.
Dan MullanGetty ImagesSeven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton has batted away speculation that Mercedes is planning ahead for the seven time world champion’s retirement.Rumors at Monza—site of this weekend’s F1 Italian Grand Prix—are strongly linking McLaren soon-to-be-free-agent Daniel Ricciardo, who seems unable to secure a race seat for 2023, with the reserve role at Mercedes for 2023.
“No comment,” Ricciardo grinned ahead of the Italian GP. “Just kidding! The truth is I’m keeping every option open, not only for next year but for the future. So yeah, there’s obviously many talks or thoughts about next year and beyond that.”
Some in F1 circles think that Daniel Ricciardo, left, may be angling for Lewis Hamilton’s race seat.
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When asked about Ricciardo’s recent talk about willing to accept a reserve driver role, Hamilton said the 33-year-old McLaren driver is “far too talented” to have to effectively sit out next season.”But of course, if he’s a part of our team that would be great,” Hamilton added.Where Hamilton did draw the line, however, was when faced with rumors that Mercedes boss Toto Wolff could picture Ricciardo as the perfect teammate for George Russell in 2024.”For years we’ve been going around, up and down with stories of retirement for me, but I love what I’m doing and don’t plan on stopping anytime soon,” Hamilton, 37, said.
“Sorry buddy!” he told Ricciardo. “I feel like I can race for quite a bit longer.”
Keyword: Hamilton Downplays F1 Rumors that Ricciardo Is Coming for His Mercedes Seat