Mutia Nabilah DevayanaFollowing Hamilton’s surprise Ferrari move, speculation swirls about his Mercedes replacement. He will take Carlos Sainz’s seat as Charles Leclerc’s new teammate, having recently signed a contract extension with Ferrari. This move will end one of the most successful partnerships in history. Together, Hamilton and Mercedes have won six driver championships and eight team-constructed champions. His success there earned him the most Formula One victories (103), podium finishes (197), and pole positions (104) in the sport’s history.
Unfortunately, Mercedes hasn’t been as lucky as they were in the last two years. Despite, the dropping form Mercedes has managed to finish second in the team constructors championship in 2023 and beat Ferrari. As one of the most desirable seats in F1 becomes available, drivers across the grid prepare for what promises to be a fierce battle to secure the spot in the silver arrow, for the 2025 season and beyond. Here are three candidates who could replace the seven-time world champion.
Carlos Sainz
The riffle effect of Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari has sent shockwaves through the Formula One world, Leaving drivers like Carlos Sainz to lose their seats. Hamilton’s departure caused a domino effect in the driver market, Sainz finds himself at a crossroads, his future in the sport uncertain as he navigates the complexities of being out of contract for the upcoming season.
A four-season period at Ferrari undoubtedly elevates Carlos Sainz to a highly desirable option for Formula One teams, possibly positioning him as a key contender for the seat left by Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes. The possibility of a swap between two teams is very likely, as Sainz himself has proven track records speak for himself.
Sainz shines at Ferrari, becoming the only non-Red Bull winner last season, cementing his top-tier status. His victory not only highlighted his exceptional talent behind the wheel but also demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level of motorsport. This positioned him as a strong contender to any top teams including Mercedes as they are looking for a strong replacement for Lewis Hamilton.
Fernando Alonso
The potential for Fernando Alonso to replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes brings a thrilling twist to the Formula 1 2025 season. Although he’s not the obvious choice, Alonso’s past success and hunger to win make him a strong contender for Hamilton’s Mercedes seat. Alonso’s contract with Aston Martin is set to expire, allowing him to pursue new opportunities, including a seat with a top-tier team such as Mercedes.
Throughout last season, Alonso demonstrated that he has lost none of his speed or ability, and his podium finishes for Aston Martin removed all doubt that, given the right car, he could compete for wins and championships. If Mercedes and Toto Wolff are looking for a short-term replacement then Alonso could be the answer but I don’t think that’s what they are looking for. Alonso himself has said on the Bahrain pre-season media press conference that he’s not certain for next season and he said that he’s not sure whether or not he wants to continue racing in the years to come.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli
Antonelli known as the young Italian prodigy and emerging star of Mercedes, has created a lot of buzz in the Formula One world. Bypassing F3 for F2 showcases Mercedes’ immense faith in his raw talent and exceptional skill.
At just 17 years old, Kimi Antonelli has won every single series that he’s been on from karting to single seater. Some people may argue that he’s the next generational talent since Max Verstappen in 2016. Making bold moves to skip to F3 shows how much confidence Mercedes has in him. Backed by Mercedes, family, and fans, his talent makes him a frontrunner to replace Hamilton, ensuring his F1 future and potential stardom.
In conclusion, the question of who will replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes for the 2025 Formula One season is still covered in mystery and anticipation. As the season goes on, Formula One fans around the world eagerly await the announcement of the driver who will take Hamilton’s coveted seat and carry the Silver Arrows torch into the future.
