Hamilton plays down latest Ricciardo to Mercedes team F1 rumours
Sep.9 - Lewis Hamilton has batted away speculation that Mercedes is planning ahead for the seven time world champion's retirement.
Rumours at Monza are strongly linking McLaren refugee Daniel Ricciardo, who seems unable to secure a race seat for 2023, with the reserve role at Mercedes for 2023.
"No comment," the Australian grinned ahead of the Italian GP. "Just kidding! The truth is I'm keeping every option open, not only for next year but for the future. So yeah, there's obviously many talks or thoughts about next year and beyond that."
Daniel Ricciardo, McLaren, during the drivers parade
When asked about Ricciardo's reserve driver link, Hamilton said the 33-year-old is "far too talented" to have to effectively sit out next season.
"But of course, if he's a part of our team that would be great," he added.
Where Hamilton did draw the line, however, was when faced with rumours that Mercedes boss Toto Wolff could see Ricciardo as the perfect teammate for George Russell in 2024.
"For years we've been going around, up and down with stories of retirement for me, but I love what I'm doing and don't plan on stopping anytime soon," Hamilton, 37, said.
"Sorry buddy!" he told Ricciardo. "I feel like I can race for quite a bit longer."
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It would be a brilliant move to replace Dame Lucille with Ricciardo.
That Mercedes management have leaked the idea to gauge public response is telling. As I have mentioned previously, vigorously pissing in the pickle-jar with his WOKE, LGBTQ2S+, Social Marxist agendas, The Dame has effectively worn out his welcome. Time he hung up his skates.
Ending up without a drive for next season is seemingly Ricciardo's destiny, regardless of how Hamilton feels about this outcome.
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