Two Drivers Could Replace Lewis Hamilton At The Next Grand Prix

Lewis Hamilton could be replaced for the upcoming Canadian Grand Prix if he is deemed unfit to race after suffering back pain in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. 

Mercedes have been struggling with the ride of their cars all season and the problems were at their worst during Sunday’s race in Baku. 

Despite the issues, the Mercedes cars finished third and forth in what was a good result for the team. They were helped by both Ferrari cars retiring during the race after suffering technical problems. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen won the race as he extended his lead at the top of the standings. 

After the race, Hamilton was visibly suffering as he struggled to climb out of his car, and during his media interviews, he described the race as the most painful race he has ever had.

Team boss Toto Wolff suggested that the seven time world champion could miss the next race.

Wolff said: “I don't think this is only Lewis' issue.”

“He's the one that is probably the worst affected, but generally it also affects George and many others. So the solution could be to have someone on reserve, which we anyway have at every race, to make sure that our cars run.”

But who could be in line to take over from Hamilton? 

It is believed that either Stoffel Vandoorne or Nyck de Vries could be the one lining up alongside George Russell for Mercedes this weekend. 

Vandoorne previously drove for McLaren between 2017 and 2018, before being replaced by Lando Norris for the 2019 season. 

De Vries is one of the most talked about drivers within the F1 paddock after winning the Formula E title for Mercedes last year. According to World Touring Car star Tom Coronel, De Vries is believed to be in line to replace Hamilton when he decides to call time on his stellar career. 

He said: “If Lewis Hamilton stops, Nyck de Vries will get the seat. Do you know why? As I’ve been saying for a year, Nyck is Toto Wolff’s insurance policy.” 

However, Hamilton is adamant that he will be fit to race this weekend by saying “I’ll be there next weekend, wouldn’t miss it for the world.” 

Hamilton is confident, but will his boss have other ideas? Only time will tell.