Ralf Schumacher has stirred up excitement by suggesting that Sebastian Vettel, the four-time Formula 1 world champion, may be contemplating a remarkable return to the sport.
Despite recent dismissal of such rumours by Sebastian’s brother Fabian, Ralf’s remarks to Sky Deutschland have reignited speculation.
“I heard that Sebastian wants to drive a car again,” Schumacher disclosed, implying that Lewis Hamilton’s high-profile move to Ferrari has influenced Vettel’s considerations.
The speculation around Vettel’s potential comeback arises as Mercedes evaluates its options for a partner to George Russell starting in 2025.
READ: Lewis Hamilton reveals why he ditched Mercedes for Ferrari
Schumacher weighed in on the challenge Russell might face in filling Hamilton’s shoes, particularly from a marketing perspective, and floated the idea of Vettel as a compelling choice for Mercedes, given his German heritage.
“Whether Russell has the charisma to replace Hamilton in terms of worldwide marketing, or Sebastian Vettel as a German driver at Mercedes, that’s probably too much for him,” Schumacher remarked, highlighting the significant stakes involved.
Lando Norris, another contender in discussions about Hamilton’s successor, recently prolonged his contract with McLaren, a move he justified despite the subsequent vacancy at Mercedes.
“I could have waited, that option was there,” Norris acknowledged, expressing no regrets over his decision and his confidence in McLaren’s future.
Fernando Alonso, presently with Aston Martin, is another driver closely monitoring the situation at Mercedes, mindful of the potential opportunity to join the team in 2025.
Alonso’s strategic patience reflects his ambition to compete in the fastest car available, underscoring the competitive dynamics shaping F1’s driver market.
“I know that my position is interesting so I will wait a couple of races,” Alonso stated, aiming for a top seat in the upcoming seasons.
READ: Helmut Marko admits he’s worried about Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes
However, Ralf Schumacher expressed doubt about Mercedes’ prospects based on their pre-season testing performance.
His reservations about Mercedes’ ability to deliver a championship-contending car might shed light on Hamilton’s decision to switch to Ferrari, following an offer from Fred Vasseur.
“I’m a bit disappointed with them so far,” Schumacher observed, hinting at potential reasons behind Hamilton’s move and the challenges Mercedes faces in retaining and attracting top driving talent.