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F1

Mercedes keen to secure Lewis Hamilton's long-term replacement

David Ben

The Silver Arrows are accessing their options should the seven-time world champion decide not to renew at the end of his current contract next year.

Mercedes will likely sign Daniel Riccardio as a backup replacement if Lewis Hamilton retires at the end of the season
Mercedes will likely sign Daniel Riccardio as a backup replacement if Lewis Hamilton retires at the end of the season

Lewis Hamilton could soon call time on his incredible Formula 1 career.

The 37-year-old Brit is currently tied with Michael Schumacher as the competition's all-time most successful drivers, having won seven world championships each.

Hamilton has not yet hinted at his plans to retire soon and has also made it clear that he will choose when he feels he has achieved all he wants to in the sport.

However, Mercedes feel it is important for them to have a plan in case he chooses not to renew his contract with the Silver Arrows, with Hamilton's current deal due to expire next season.

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Lewis Hamilton's current contract with Mercedes expires next year
Lewis Hamilton's current contract with Mercedes expires next year AFP

Reports have now claimed that Daniel Ricciardo could become a reserve driver for Mercedes as a long-term replacement for Lewis Hamilton after next season.

The Aussie's Formula 1 future is currently unclear after he was told by McLaren that they would be terminating his contract a year before it is due to expire.

Riccardio's axing comes in the wake of his failure to adapt to his car and produce consistent results since joining in 2021.

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At the moment, there is no guarantee of a seat on the grid next year, slimming down Ricciardo's chances of advancing in his Formula 1 career.

Daniel Riccardio will leave McLaren at the end of the season
Daniel Riccardio will leave McLaren at the end of the season AFP

According to Daily Mail, Riccardio may be thrown a lifeline by the Silver Arrows, as they seek to plan for a future that doesn't involve their seven-time world champion, Hamilton.

A source told the newspaper: "Mercedes are thinking about Ricciardo to cover off the possibility of walking away at the end of next season. Having Daniel in their camp means they wouldn't be left high and dry. It would also mean George would be the main man from that point in 2024."

Ricciardo himself has already made it clear that he "wouldn't give up on F1" if he couldn't find a race seat for next season.

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"If it means I'm not on the grid next year, I will still certainly try to find a way to be on there in 2024," he was quoted to have said last week.

The report also adds that the 33-year-old could be enlisted as a backup driver for next season, with a view to taking over from Hamilton if he does decide to call time on his racing career at the end of the year.

David Ben David Ben David is a reporter and versatile content writer with keen interest in entertainment, gist and eSports generally.

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