Toto Wolff , Mercedes AMG F1 Executive Director, stated that the current situation with Mercedes’ junior drivers is making him consider certain things. One of the solutions he has for finding seats for drivers like Esteban Ocon is the third car for Formula 1 teams so there can be “fantastic shows of new kids on the block coming up and fighting hard… and maybe surprising us.”
Toto Wolff Hopes There Can Be A Third Car In Teams For Younger Drivers
Wolff’s comments came after talking about Ocon’s current situation. The French driver might not have a seat for the next F1 season. Mercedes’ boss thinks the Mercedes board should reconsider many things. The Austrian recognizes that drivers who are Mercedes proteges have difficulty finding a seat with rival teams.
“Mercedes drivers might be stigmatized, it seems to be not the best-selling proposition.” said Wolff. The Austrian believes the Mercedes junior programme should continue its duties of helping young, talented drivers, but was clear about the situation. “If we (Mercedes) can’t find a place for them in Formula 1, it doesn’t make a lot of sense.”
Ocon’s Future Is Uncertain
Ocon might be on his way out of Racing Points Force India after a couple of strong seasons, due to reasons that have not much to do with his performance. Force India’s economic situation prompted a financial rescue by Lance Stroll‘s father, Lawrence Stroll.
Stroll’s move from Williams to Force India is almost a given. So Ocon’s departure from Force India will be due to money. Sergio Pérez is the driver with the best results for Force India and looks set to stay.
Mercedes Junior Programme Under Scrutiny
Wolff comments not only were regarding Ocon’s current state, but he also talked about current Formula 2 championship leader George Russell and former Manor and Sauber driver Pascal Wehrlein. “If we can’t find a solution for these guys, I would question the [Mercedes] junior programme in the future,” he admitted.
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