Mercedes search for a new driver after Rosberg’s retirement - Nico's announcement frees up a crucial 2016 seat
Published by Christine
Nico Rosberg shocked the F1 world with his retirement announcement, less than a week after becoming world champion. His resolve is clear, however, so it’s up to Mercedes now to find a replacement for the best seat on the grid. Naturally, every driver has been linked with the team already, but Toto Wolff has shot down some of the bigger rumours, saying: “It’s not my intention to interfere with Ferrari’s internal issues… it’s the same thing with Alonso – what would Ferrari and McLaren do without Vettel and Alonso in December?”
Pascal Wehrlein is the more obvious choice, given his status as a Mercedes junior driver racing with the Manor team, but it depends on how much experience is required. Wehrlein says: “The team knows I would love to drive for them, the tests I did were great. I cannot call them every day to say what’s happening, I don’t want to be annoying.”
And Hamilton has opened the Mercedes welcoming arms, saying: “It’s a great environment. When you’re in the Mercedes family, it’s a beautiful place to be.”
